India, Aug. 1 -- Environmentalists have raised serious objections to the ongoing construction of a cement concrete (CC) road on a walking trail within the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) limits on Taljai hill. The civic body has reportedly dug a 1-1.5-metre-wide stretch to construct the road, drawing criticism for the ecologically-damaging excavation work in a sensitive natural habitat.

The 108-acre forest patch where the construction is taking place falls within the municipal limits and is part of a designated nature habitat. Activists fear that this is part of a growing trend of encroachment and unplanned development that threatens Pune's remaining green spaces.

Citing Pune's rich natural and cultural heritage, activists pointed out ...