Despite Protests, PMC Advances Plans for Balbharti-Paud Phata Road

Report by The Newsage Pune.

PMC Set to Commence Construction of Balbharti-Paud Phata Road

Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is set to seek permission from the Forest Department to commence work on the long-delayed Balbharti to Paud Phata road. The project, estimated at ₹152 crore, has faced opposition from environmentalists and citizens, causing a delay of over two years.

The long-awaited Balbharti-Paud Phata road is set to be created. PMC sought special permission from the Forest Department since the creation of this road has always remained controversial, delaying the progress by almost 2 years. The administration has guaranteed that no deforestation will occur, and the road will be built with the least amount of damage to the environment.

PMC has allocated only ₹3 crore for the project in its 2025-26 budget, with officials stating that funds will be increased if a favorable court verdict is received. The administration has assured that the road will be built with an environmentally conscious approach and without tree cutting.

The Environmental Department had previously granted a no-objection certificate, and PMC now requires formal approval from the Forest Department. Once granted, the project can move forward with procedural compliance, public consultations, and necessary impact assessments.