Pune, Maharashtra: In the wake of a viral video featuring two inebriated college girls on Vetal Tekdi, the state forest department is set to conduct a crucial meeting with concerned stakeholders to address safety and escalating anti-social activities in the area. Forest conservator Mahadev Mohite, Pune division, expressed concern over the incident and highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to find effective solutions. The meeting is scheduled for March 4 at MAFCO hall in Gokhale Nagar, starting from 5 p.m.
The incident has ignited discussions across social media platforms, with citizens demanding immediate action from the forest department and police to curb free movement on the hills. The increasing number of college students and couples visiting these secluded areas has led to concerns about public nuisance and safety. Activists advocating for tekdi safety have called for continuous patrolling on the hills to deter anti-social activities.
The forest department acknowledges the rising incidents of looting, molestation, threats, and group conflicts in urban forest parks like Vetal Tekdi, Pachgaon Parvati, Hanuman Hill, Warje, Kothrud, Narhe, and Pimpri-Chinchwad. Most of these areas fall under the jurisdiction of the forest department, and citizens have been urging authorities to deploy security guards to prevent mischievous behavior.
Mahadev Mohite disclosed plans to hire private security guards considering the increasing incidents. He emphasized the need for collaboration with Pune Municipal Corporation and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation to build walls and safeguard tekdis under their jurisdiction. Mohite also addressed concerns about encroachment and unmindful behavior, including the disposal of liquor bottles, leading to potential fire hazards.
The forest department aims to discuss these matters in the upcoming meeting, seeking ways to streamline activities without causing damage to the reserve forest area. Citizens’ demands include increased patrolling, installation of CCTVs, forming emergency groups, displaying helpline numbers, banning vehicles, restricting stay in secluded places, and communicating actions taken against wrongdoers.
