Experts & residents urge caution over Miyawaki plantation plan on Vetal Tekdi | Pune News

Pune: Environmentalists and residents have urged caution over the forest department’s plan to remove Gliricidia plantations and introduce Miyawaksi-tyle native tree plantations on parts of Vetal Tekdi, warning that the initiative could harm the hill’s grassland and scrub forest ecosystem if not scientifically designed.The issue concerns two locations on Vetal Tekdi — a two-hectare patch…

Read More

Govt clarifies Patwardhan-led panel’s aim is to frame safeguards to prevent aided colleges from converting into private universities solely for profiteering | Pune News

Pune: The state’s higher education department on Saturday clarified that it did not intend to allow aided, non-govt colleges to convert into private universities ‘solely with the motive of profiteering’.The clarification, issued via a statement, followed criticism in the media after a govt resolution (GR) issued on April 28 announced the formation of an expert…

Read More

12 Metro stations on Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar route likely to open by June-end | Pune News

Pune: Commuters awaiting the Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro (Line 3) can expect partial relief by June-end, with 12 stations likely to open in the first phase, contingent on mandatory safety clearances, PMRDA officials told TOI after attending a meeting in Mumbai on Thursday.The officials indicated that the overall project was now 95.2% complete. “The Commissioner of Metro…

Read More

Smugglers strike gold in hydroponic weed at Pune airport | Pune News

Image Used For Representational Purpose Only PUNE: Smuggling trend at Pune airport is quietly shifting, with traffickers increasingly turning to high-profit hydroponic weed.Customs officials said the trend was driven by multiple factors. “Smugglers are gravitating towards hydroponic weed because it offers substantially higher profit margins, far greater potency than traditional marijuana, and is easier to…

Read More

Experience-led events see many takers this Mother’s Day | Pune News

Pune: As the city gears up to celebrate Mother’s Day, the local scene is evolving beyond traditional brunches. This year, Pune is witnessing a surge in experience-led events, ranging from sunrise pottery workshops and camping nights to forest sound-healing sessions and curated “mom’s day off” retreats.Pune’s cafés, art spaces, and wellness communities are offering fresh…

Read More

Ice cream sales report sharp uptick as Pune swelters under high temperatures | Pune News

Pune: Ice cream sales have witnessed a significant surge across the city, with parlours, grocery stores and premium dessert chains reporting a sharp uptick in demand as Pune swelters under rising summer temperatures.Choosing from artisanal gelatos to low-sugar alternatives, consumers are increasingly indulging to beat the heat. Ice cream manufacturers are expecting a 25%-30% increase…

Read More