The recently concluded New Pune Urban Development Conclave, organized by the Surendra Pathare Foundation (SPF) in Kharadi, was a groundbreaking event that brought together a diverse group of experts, policymakers, and citizens to envision a more sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant future for Pune. The conclave provided a unique platform for open dialogue, fostering collaboration and innovative thinking around the pressing challenges and opportunities facing the city today. The issues were mainly related to the areas of Viman Nagar, Kalyani Nagar, Dhanori, Kharadi and Vadagoan Sheri, envisioned as New Pune.
Surendra Pathare, founder of the Surendra Pathare Foundation, set the tone for the event with a compelling call to action, emphasising the importance of community involvement and forward-thinking strategies to shape the future of Pune. He highlighted that the vision of “New Pune” must be a collective effort that includes all voices and focuses on holistic growth, from cultural preservation to sustainable development and public health.
Mahesh Zagade, an ex-IAS officer, delivered a strong message about the urgent need for a dedicated city planner to address Pune’s sluggish growth. Zagade highlighted the gap in local self-governance and the absence of Kshetra Sabha meetings at the municipal level, which has resulted in development delays and inefficiencies. He advocated for a governance model that places citizen participation at its core, ensuring that development is both inclusive and responsive to the needs of the community.
Abhijit Ghorpade underscored the need for sustainable urban planning that respects Pune’s cultural heritage while embracing modernity. He stressed the importance of integrating green spaces, conserving historic landmarks, and promoting community-driven development that reflects the city’s unique identity and meets contemporary needs.
Pradeep Awate, Joint Director of the Maharashtra Health Department, brought attention to critical public health challenges. He warned of the growing threat of Tuberculosis (TB), which has now surpassed COVID-19 as a major health concern, due to poor urban planning and inadequate health infrastructure. Awate advocated for stronger public health strategies, improved infrastructure, and community awareness initiatives to ensure the health and safety of all citizens.
The discussions during the conclave were diverse, focusing on topics such as inclusive development, cultural preservation, sustainable urban planning, public health, and resilient infrastructure. The event was instrumental in creating a shared understanding of the complexities of urban growth and the need for a multifaceted approach to address these challenges.
The New Pune Urban Development Conclave, championed by the Surendra Pathare Foundation, reaffirmed the importance of collective action and collaboration. It successfully brought together thought leaders, experts, and citizens to chart a path forward for Pune’s future, ensuring it remains a city that thrives on innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. As the conclave concluded, it left participants with a sense of purpose and commitment to work together toward building a brighter future for all of Pune’s residents.
Moving forward, the insights and solutions generated at the conclave will serve as a foundation for future initiatives led by the Surendra Pathare Foundation, ensuring that New Pune emerges as a model of sustainable urban development.
