‘Citizens deserve vibrant space to stroll, chat, explore: Pune’s Jyotiba Phule Art Plaza set for revival after years of neglect

With the floor overrun by thick patches of wild grass, broken street lamps hanging over pathways, and many benches crumbling from the top, the plaza bears several marks of abandonment. Local residents say the space never lived up to its original intention due to the absence of events that would draw artists and art enthusiasts. The lack of regular maintenance worsened during the pandemic years when lockdown forced the plaza’s closure.

Shut during pandemic

According to officials from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), multiple factors contributed to the deterioration. “The grass growing is a result of the monsoon. The plaza was closed during the COVID-19 lockdown. Its condition worsened after that. There was no response from citizens. Besides, Metro construction and various other works went on in that area, which is why the plaza got sidelined. But now, over the past year, we have begun restoration and renovation works,” said Vishram Deo, Deputy Engineer, Heritage Department, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).

“The place is being redeveloped with the help of a CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) fund. The tender has been allotted and the work began two weeks ago. Be it the benches, the lighting or the walkway, it is all going to be revamped. Layouts for architectural beautification are also getting ready. Citizens deserve a vibrant space that invites them to stroll, chat, explore art, and enjoy meet-ups. Once the usability increases, maintenance will increase too,” Deo added.

For residents, expectations remain simple

Residents who frequent the area expressed a mix of frustration and cautious optimism. “Two months ago, there was grass up to our waist. It was cleaned only after we complained. There are a lot of people who come here in the morning and evening, but there is also the threat of snakes with the overgrowth,” said Arun Admane, a resident of Yerwada.

For many citizens, the expectations remain simple. “The plaza opened many years ago. Deterioration is bound to happen with time, but all we ask for is a clean and well-maintained space where we can spend our time in peace,” shared Ashok Gaikwad, another local resident.

Others hope the premises won’t fall into disrepair again. “The PMC has started the work. Last time, we were promised a lot from this space, but that did not happen. We hope this time it genuinely turns out to be a good project because it has a lot of potential. Many people like us come here daily. It would be really beneficial for us,” said Deepak Dhaje, another resident.

With restoration work underway and renewed promises from the PMC, citizens are optimistic that the Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Art Plaza will finally evolve into the lively cultural destination the city was once promised.