Pune: Citizens have opposed the civic body's proposal to start weekly farmer markets in two amenity spaces in Baner and Pashan , saying there was neither any public consultation nor concerns addressed over scarcity of open spaces in such rapidly developing areas. Residents of Pashan, Baner and Balewadi as well as critics argued that amenity spaces should be reserved for much-needed gardens and playgrounds. They pointed out that existing vegetable market facilities in the neighbourhood remain unutilised.
A stakeholder meeting has been scheduled on Thursday to address the issue. Girish Dapkekar, assistant municipal commissioner, Aundh-Baner ward office, said they had sent letters asking for suggestions and objections from residents. "Our decision is not final.
Pune Municipal Corporation 's (PMC) main officials will take a decision after going through what residents have to say. I appeal people to send us their valuable feedback," said Dapkekar. The World Bank-financed project titled Urban Food Pilot falls under the Balasaheb Thackeray Agribusiness and Rural Transformation programme.
"The project aims to improve the farmers' weekly market component and give them a platform to sell directly to customers. Three amenity spaces — one on Baner Pashan Link Road and two in Baner — have been proposed," said a letter by Dapkekar on Oct 3, urging citizens to attend the stakeholders' meeting which was proposed on Oct 4. However, on Oct 4, residents asked PMC officials to provide them w.