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800 Punekars participated in a Chipko protest against the Riverfront Development Project in Pune, aiming to protect sacred groves (Devrai) and river ecosystems.
Devrai refers to protected forests worshipped by local communities, which provide ecological protection.
Protesters hugged trees to prevent them from being felled.
Concerns
The ₹4,727 crore project plans to develop a 44-km stretch of Pune's rivers (Mula, Mutha, and Mula-Mutha) for beautification, with concrete promenades and embankments.
Residents and environmentalists are concerned about tree cutting, environmental damage, and lack of transparency in the planning process.
The project has faced opposition and litigation.
Activists fear that the project will harm the river ecosystem, cause flooding, and reduce water quality.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) claims 10,800 trees will be felled, with 11,000 relocated.
They argue the project will clean and improve the river's condition.
Key figures like Sonam Wangchuk and environmental groups emphasize the need for public input and an environmentally sustainable approach to development.
Claims : The project aims to reduce flooding, improve water quality, create public spaces, and connect heritage sites.
However, experts warn that narrowing the river might cause environmental risks.
Despite concerns, some stretches of the riverfront are nearing completion.
Local officials say the new infrastructure, like gabion walls, withstood flood tests, and the project has made the riverfront accessible to the public.
Protesters are not against development but want an approach that prioritizes the river's health and community involvement.
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