Pimpri-Chinchwad: City’s recently released revised draft Development Plan has triggered controversy after designating a four-acre plot near the Indrayani River, close to Alandi on the Moshi–Dudulgaon border, for a proposed slaughterhouse. The proposal sparked strong objections from Hindutva organizations and the Warkari sect, prompting Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to intervene.
During his visit to Pune, Fadnavis assured citizens that there will be no slaughterhouse near Alandi and that the reservation for such a facility will be canceled. “The draft plan did initially show a plot allocated for a slaughterhouse. However, I have instructed officials to de-reserve that land. A slaughterhouse will not be permitted at this sacred site,” Fadnavis stated.
He acknowledged the significance of Alandi as a holy pilgrimage destination and assured the Warkari community that Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj’s resting place will remain undisturbed.
The controversial reservation — Survey No. 325 in Moshi — is situated alongside Vedshri Tapovan on the Dehu–Alandi Road. In addition to Reservation No. 5/220, Reservation No. 5/221 earmarked a separate four-acre plot for an animal hospital nearby. Critics argued that the proposal failed to take into account the spiritual sanctity of the area, the proximity of sacred rivers, and local sentiments.
BJP Pimpri-Chinchwad MLA Mahesh Landge welcomed the Deputy Chief Minister’s decision, highlighting the state’s commitment to cow protection and Hindutva values. “The BJP Mahayuti government upholds religion and tradition. CM Fadnavis took a strong stand for cow protection by ensuring the cancellation of this reservation,” Landge remarked.
He also noted that residents, cow conservationists, and Hindu groups had persistently opposed the plan, thanking the Chief Minister for his prompt action. Landge added that just as TP schemes in Tathawade-Chikhali were scrapped and Charholi’s TP plan was stayed, this issue too was resolved efficiently after public protests.
The announcement brings relief to local devotees and the broader Hindu community, reaffirming the government’s commitment to preserving Alandi’s sacred character.
