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The Khadki Cantonment Board (KCB) has proposed the excision of 326 acres from its civilian zones and their integration with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), impacting nearly 29,000 residents. This decision follows consultations with defence and civic authorities, including the Southern Command and Bombay Engineering Group. While the merger could enhance municipal services, it also raises concerns over security and development restrictions near defence establishments. Feedback from the PMC and state government remains pending, and no final decision has been made regarding the merger, which includes maintaining certain defence-controlled zones.
In a move that could reshape local governance, the Khadki Cantonment Board (KCB) has proposed transferring 326 acres of its civilian areas to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). This proposal, which has been sent to the state government for approval, followed extensive discussions with defence authorities, including the Southern Command and Ammunition Factory Khadki (AFK). If implemented, the merger will affect around 29,000 residents, bringing them under PMC's jurisdiction. Advertisement
The civilian zones up for merger include Khadki Bazaar, Sapras (Bombay Sappers), and Sangamwadi. However, stringent security protocols will remain in place. KCB's CEO, Meenakshi Lohia, explained that anyone planning construction within 100 metres of Army establishments would still need a no-objection certificate (NoC), a measure aimed at maintaining security standards.
Earlier this month, KCB presented the proposal to PMC representatives. The feedback from PMC will be a key factor as the state government evaluates the merger. While Khadki's prime location has spurred real estate interest, board officials highlighted that security concerns might limit large-scale projects, particularly high-rise buildings. A senior Army officer stressed that security remains the top priority. They mentioned that no construction or NoC approvals would be granted for projects that pose any risk to defence establishments. Each proposal will undergo detailed scrutiny by military authorities.
The directorate of municipal administration (DMA), which oversees such mergers, has yet to decide on the matter. DMA Commissioner Manoj Ranade stated that discussions are ongoing, with feedback from various municipal corporations under review. Another senior official indicated that resistance from civic bodies could derail the merger, especially since development restrictions would persist post-merger.
Khadki, one of India's oldest cantonments, serves as a key connector between Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. The merger plan excludes areas such as Army-managed bungalow zones and AFK-controlled Range Hills, leaving them under defence jurisdiction. Vacant plots in KCB will also remain unchanged.
Authorities face challenges like maintaining current infrastructure, developing additional facilities, and covering the salaries and pensions of cantonment employees. As of now, the state government has not reached a decision, leaving the proposal's future uncertain.
The proposed merger of Khadki's civilian areas with PMC presents both opportunities and challenges. While it could provide enhanced municipal services and boost real estate prospects, strict security regulations around defence zones may impede large-scale developments. The involvement of key stakeholders, including the state government and municipal corporations, highlights the complexity of this process. As one of India's oldest cantonments, Khadki holds historical and strategic importance, making its administrative transition a decision with far-reaching implications. The outcome will depend on thorough evaluations of feedback, infrastructure needs, and security considerations.
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