The Indian Army, known for its dedication to safeguarding the nation and natural resources, has taken up the initiative of preserving the ecology of Pune Cantonment by converting it into a Biodiversity Hotspot. The region, situated near the bio-diverse Western Ghats, faces numerous environmental challenges, including declining tree cover and increasing pollution. Towards achieving this end, many activities have been planned by the Pune based HQ Southern Command of Indian Army. Construction of ‘Tiranga Tunnel’ is one such sub-project which has been conceptualized as a historic endeavor to protect nature’s treasures and promote environmental responsibility.
The Tiranga Tunnel is a symbol of national unity and environmental consciousness. It has been created at the entrance of the Southern Command Head Quarters, Pune, as a tribute to our great nation and its citizens. The tunnel embodies the Indian Army’s commitment to sustainable development and ecological preservation. The design has twelve exquisitely designed overhead arches, six on each side of the Southern Command gate. They combining together, make two Tirangas, one each on either side of the gate. First two consecutive arches of each Tiranga adorn “Saffron bougainvillea” representing “courage” the next two arches adorn “White bougainvillea” representing “purity”, and the last two arches adorn “Green money plants” symbolizing ‘prosperity”. These floral combinations symbolize the unity and harmony that bind our diverse nation together. With a width of 13 meters and a towering height of 5.5 meters, the “Tiranga Tunnel” is a majestic installation connecting our glorious past with the promising future. Starting from the statue of revered Field Marshal Manekshaw, the Tiranga Tunnel spreads across the entire front wall of HQ Southern Command.
In this endeavor for the creation of the ‘Tiranga Tunnel’, Southern Command, has collaborated with Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) which is also promoting preservation of Pune’s unique biodiversity, Himalaya Wellness Company, a leading wellness brand committed to promoting health and well-being, and the Society for Environment and Biodiversity Conservation (SEBC) which has been instrumental in supporting biodiversity conservation initiatives over the years.
Lt Gen Ajai Kumar Singh, AVSM, YSM, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding in Chief, Southern Command, inaugurated this signature ‘Tiranga Tunnel’ on the occasion of India’s 76th Independence Day, marking a historic step towards safeguarding our environment and showcasing the Indian Army’s commitment towards serving the nation and conserving biodiversity.
