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The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) approved 16 high-rise projects in 2024, a 78% increase from 2023, marking the highest approvals since 2016. Defined under the UDCPR as buildings over 24 meters tall, some of these new projects reach up to 160.45 meters and are concentrated in areas like Balewadi, Kharadi, and Bopodi. While urban planners support vertical growth for urban densification, concerns remain about strained infrastructure. PMC officials emphasize rigorous scrutiny and improved infrastructure, including twin water pipelines, but residents fear increased traffic and water shortages. The PMC must balance urban growth with essential infrastructure to ensure sustainable development.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has reported a significant increase in high-rise building approvals in 2024, with 16 new projects cleared. This marks a notable rise of 78% compared to the nine approvals granted in 2023 and is the highest number since the PMC began approving such proposals in 2016. Advertisement
The definition of a high-rise building, according to the Unified Development Control and Promotion Rules (UDCPR), is any construction that reaches a height of 24 meters or more above the average surrounding ground level. Many of the newly approved buildings exceed 100 meters, with the tallest reaching 160.45 meters. These projects are primarily located in areas such as Somwar Peth, Balewadi, Baner, Mundhwa, Kharadi, and Bopodi.
PMC officials emphasize that the approval process for high-rises involves thorough scrutiny of project sites and the necessary infrastructure. Amol Bahadkar, a senior official in the PMC's building permissions department, noted that regular meetings of the high-rise committee facilitate better assessment of proposals. "We conduct ground-level assessments before granting approvals to ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place," he stated.
Between 2016 and 2023, the PMC approved a total of 41 high-rise proposals. One requirement for these projects is the installation of a twin pipeline system, with one pipeline dedicated to treated water. Previously, the lack of adequate infrastructure hindered the approval of many projects. However, recent improvements, such as road widening, have accelerated the process.
Urban planners and architects have mixed feelings about the rise in high-rises. Shailesh Dendane from the Indian Institute of Architects, Pune Centre, supports vertical growth as a solution for urban densification but stresses the need for careful planning. He explained that while high-rise buildings can help accommodate more people within limited space, they must be supported by sufficient infrastructure.
On the other hand, senior urban planner Ramchandra Gohad warns that unchecked high-rise development could strain existing resources. He cautioned that if high-rises are approved without proper scrutiny, they may overwhelm traffic, sewage, and water supply systems. Gohad advocates for infrastructure development to occur in tandem with the construction of high-rises to prevent future urban planning challenges.
Residents have expressed concerns over the rapid increase in high-rise buildings, fearing that it may lead to problems such as traffic congestion and water shortages. Sanjeevkumar Patil, a Nagar Road resident, expressed concerns about the area's existing traffic and water supply issues. He warned that introducing more high-rises could exacerbate these challenges for future residents.
As Pune continues to grow, the PMC's approach to high-rise buildings will play a crucial role in shaping the city's urban landscape. Balancing growth with the provision of essential infrastructure will be key to ensuring that the needs of current and future residents are met. The ongoing dialogue among city officials, urban planners, and residents will be vital in navigating the complexities of urban development in Pune.
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