Pune: PMC Extends Garden Hours to 9 PM Amid Summer Heat and School Holidays
In response to rising temperatures and the ongoing school vacations, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has extended the closing time of public gardens by an hour. Previously shutting at 8 PM, the gardens will now remain open until 9 PM, providing citizens with a cooler and more comfortable space for evening leisure.
The decision, announced by Ashok Ghorpade, head of PMC’s garden department, aims to benefit families, children, and senior citizens who prefer to visit parks in the evening when the heat subsides. Pune has over 220 public gardens, which serve as essential recreational spaces, especially during summer vacations when footfall increases significantly.
Along with the extended hours, PMC has launched a maintenance drive to enhance park facilities. Special focus is being given to children’s play areas, with teams conducting inspections and repairing broken equipment. Additionally, PMC is improving lighting and sanitation in the gardens by installing new streetlights and ensuring regular cleanliness drives.
The move has been well received by residents, particularly working professionals and senior citizens, who now have more flexibility for evening strolls. Parents have also welcomed the decision, as it encourages outdoor play for children, reducing excessive screen time.
PMC has allocated funds for ongoing garden maintenance and potential upgrades, including additional seating, improved landscaping, and better water facilities. Officials are considering further enhancements to ensure Pune’s public gardens remain safe and enjoyable for all visitors.
