Subhechcha Ganguly 
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated a major heritage redevelopment project by forming a 14-member committee and deploying a special survey squad to oversee the expansion and integration of the Mahatma Phule Wada and Kranti Jyoti Savitribai Phule Memorial in the Mahatma Phule Peth area.
The civic body plans to acquire approximately 5,310 square meters of land—spread between and around the two historic sites—for the redevelopment, following approval from the Maharashtra government on February 7. An additional 298 square meters has also been earmarked under Section 205 of the MRTP Act for road infrastructure as part of Pune’s Development Plan (DP).
The newly formed squad, comprising 31 officials, will be led by Kisan Dagadkhair, Assistant Municipal Commissioner of Bhavani Peth ward. The properties identified for acquisition include existing structures that fall in the 300-meter stretch separating the two memorials, which are to be connected by a proposed road.
The committee, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Avinash Sakpal, includes members from PMC’s land acquisition, building construction, solid waste management, and property departments. Their tasks will involve site inspections, engaging with affected residents, and collecting feedback on compensation preferences—such as cash, Floor Space Index (FSI), or Transferable Development Rights (TDR).
After consultations, the panel will draft a comprehensive proposal for approval by the municipal commissioner, the standing committee, and the general body. The integrated memorial is expected to honor the legacy of social reformers Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule and enhance the heritage value of the area.
