In a remarkable turnaround, the Uruli Devachi landfill site in Phursungi, Pune, once notorious for its foul smell and flies, has undergone a breathtaking transformation into a lush green space. Now named Amrut Van, the area is not only attracting school study trips but has also become a sought-after location for Bollywood film shoots. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) officials recently received a request for shooting a sequence for Akshay Kumar and Sara Ali Khan’s upcoming movie ‘Sky Force’ on this rejuvenated land.
Cinematic Appeal of Amrut Van: According to PMC officials, the agency coordinating the film shooting has applied for the use of Amrut Van between February and March 2024. The concrete ground and the adjacent area, adorned with thick forest cover, are expected to serve as a backdrop for a military base in the film.
Sandip Kadam, head of PMC solid waste management department, stated, “We have received an application from an agency for Akshay Kumar’s movie. They want to use the concrete ground and nearby land with thick forest cover for their film.”
Transformation from Dump to Forest: The Uruli landfill site, spanning 20 acres, was converted into an urban forest, Amrut Van, after facing criticism and opposition from nearby residents. The project commenced in 2017-18, and over 20,000 saplings were planted. The lush greenery, now comprising trees over 10 feet tall, stands in stark contrast to its previous reputation as a garbage dump.
Ashok Ghorpade, head of PMC garden department, highlighted the success of the project, stating, “The civic body faced criticism for the stinking garbage depot. Now an urban forest with over 20,000 trees has been developed on the land. PMC had named the urban forest Amrut Van.”
Bollywood’s Interest and Public Attraction: The acceptance of a film shooting request is a testament to the successful conversion of the once-neglected land. Not only is Amrut Van a potential location for Bollywood, but it has also become a destination for school study tours. The authorities plan to develop walkways, making it accessible to the public and turning it into a major attraction.
“Even some schools are organizing study tours on the land since the last couple of months,” mentioned Sandip Kadam, indicating the growing popularity of this green oasis.
As Uruli Devachi’s landfill site evolves into a haven of greenery, it stands as a shining example of environmental rejuvenation and the potential for repurposing spaces for both educational and cinematic purposes.
