Pune: Former MLA of Kasba Peth Ravindra Dhangekar has written to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and state govt, urging them to convene a joint meeting of all stakeholders to resolve the long-pending issue of permitting redevelopment and construction activities near Shaniwarwada, a protected monument.Dhangekar said the issue remains unresolved despite repeated follow-ups, leaving residents unable to undertake redevelopment or reconstruction of their buildings and wadas due to restrictions on construction within a 100-metre radius of Shaniwarwada. He said the matter should be taken up on a priority.Residents living around Shaniwarwada have been demanding a practical solution, claiming that many of their houses have become dilapidated and require redevelopment or reconstruction. They have also staged protests against the restrictions.Dhangekar said during his tenure as an MLA, he had repeatedly pursued the issue with state govt, but no concrete solution was found. He added that discussions are now underway to rejuvenate the old water supply scheme near Shaniwarwada.“While rejuvenating the water supply scheme in the area, the govt should take a holistic approach and also resolve the issue of permitting construction activities. Delaying the decision is not in anyone’s interest,” Dhangekar said.
