No Space

Parking, it’s a nightmare

Parking your vehicle on Main Street or Fashion Street is becoming a painful experience indeed. You are forced to pay the parking fees upfront, only to find your vehicle damaged when you return or another car parked in front, making it difficult for you to back out. The PCB on its part says it has changed the contractor after receiving complaints from a number of citizens. Let’s hope the new set of people are a little less aggressive

Aditi Thirani Camp

It’s a sad scenario. You’re trying to prevent yourself from getting drenched in the rain by parking your vehicle and rushing off to take cover under the shade of a shop only to be held back by a rude parking attendant who insists that you pay first, however wet you get. Having no option you open your wallet, pay him the money, get fully drenched and then proceed for the work you’ve come to finish at Main Street or Fashion Street.

"When I go to the Camp area with my family, I try my best to avoid talking to parking lot attendants there. Not only are they rude, they never help out with parking. I have to be careful to see that my car does nor get damaged while getting into the parking slot and also look carefully to see there is no vehicle darting across while I am backing out," says Anand Mishra, a resident of Koregaon Park. Complaints of attendants using foul language and provoking the car- owner into a brawl are common. "Rude behaviour is one thing. You have to beg for a parking ticket which more often than not contains no details. It’s just a few scrawls on a ticket," says Anand.

By insisting that car-owners pay first, attendants make it convenient for themselves. When the owner returns and requires assistance to get his vehicle out, the attendant conveniently disappears. If your car is scratched or damaged by another vehicle trying to squeeze into a space near you, you can do nothing because if the attendant is close by he will insist it happened when he was on the other side of the parking lot. So you end up leaving your car in an automobile workshop and paying anywhere between Rs 1,500 to Rs 5,000 to get a dent and paint job done.

"The other day I parked my vehicle near Fashion Street. When I came back, there was a dent near my left door. It was raining heavily and I went around looking for the attendant. He was nowhere to be seen and as it was pouring I could not hang around for long. When I took the car to the workshop the next day, I was told the door had to be removed and the job attended to. I was handed out a bill of Rs 1,200. It does hurt, when the reason you put your car in a parking lot is to see it’s safe and not damaged," says Paul D’Cunha, a resident of Fatima Nagar.

Sudhir Apte who works on Main Street says it’s a nightmare every evening. "After a long day’s work when I come to the parking lot, I invariably find two cars parked in front of my vehicle with their drivers nowhere in sight. I have to wait till both these drivers are back to remove my car," says Sudhir. The Pune Cantonment Board acknowledges the problem but says they have changed the contractor primarily because complaints of this nature were pouring in. The PCB on its part says they are willing to take action on a written complaint. Hopefully the new contractor will have a better set of people working under him.

A different player

Fighting the odds

Fifteen year-old Amit Shingare, a ball-boy at the Ekon Tennis Academy, who cannot afford to buy a racquet defeated one of the best players in his age group. The school drop-out is now keen on completing his SSC examination

Aditi Thirani Deccan

Who says mountains cannot be moved. Nothing is impossible if one has a dream coupled with a desire to see it fulfilled. How else can one explain the rise of 15 year-old Amit Shingare, a ball-boy at the Ekon Tennis Academy, who cannot even afford to buy a racquet - defeating one of the best players in his age group. Amit, a marker and ball-boy, surprised all by defeating Aditya Vyas, a player pitted to win, in the Ramesh Desai Memorial State Ranking Championship.

Now he is eyeing the finals and is keen to grab the title in his debut itself. So how did Amit make it so far: "I have been coming here from childhood. I have seen many big players at their game and have learnt from them," he says. His grandfather, Bansode Kaka, worked as a ball-boy and marker at the Deccan Gymkhana for 30 years.

Amit who has studied till class eight at the Shri Shivaji Vidyamandir dropped out of school two years ago. He has been working as a marker and ball-boy at the Ekon Tennis Academy for the last five years and lives in Aundh with his younger brother and mother. Amit’s father left his mother when Amit was still a chid forcing the young boy to start working early in life. What makes Amit’s victory sweeter is that he has not received any formal training in tennis. "I have been watching the game from childhood and have always dreamt of making it big. It was only six months ago that I started practicing.

He practices two hours a day with borrowed equipment. His gear has been provided by Abhishek Tamhane, who runs the Ekon Academy. "Abhishek sir has been really nice. I can count on both, the support of my mother and him." With the final’s fast approaching, Amit hardly gets any time to rest. His mother has been both his pillar of strength and support. "Amit always had a flair for the game. Everyone wanted him to do something and he is on his way of achieving that. I will always support him in his endeavour," says his mother. He is planning to sit for his SSC exam shortly and is keen on educating his younger brother too.

"Winning or losing can never be pre-determined. You can win if you pursue your goals and channelise your thoughts in that direction," says Amit. Bold words from a boy and his family struggling to make two ends meet.

The best medical college

AFMC all the way

The Armed Forces Medical College in Pune is the first medical college to be set up by the armed forces in Asia. AFMC was rated the country’s third best medical college in 2006 after AIIMS, New Delhi and CMC, Vellore

Aditi Thirani Golibar Maidan

The Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune holds the distinction of being the first medical college set up by the armed forces in Asia. The college combines medical education with training catering specifically to the healthcare needs of the armed forces. AFMC was rated the country’s third best medical college in 2006 after AIIMS, New Delhi and CMC, Vellore.

The college was established on May 1, 1948. It was earlier known as Army Medical Training Centre (AMTC). AMTC was established on August 17, 1945 and grew after being merged with the Army School of Hygiene, JCOs and NCOs Training School, Army School of Radiology, Central Military Pathology Laboratory, Army Transfusion Centre and the Medical Research Organisation. In the recently concluded Maharashtra University Of Health Sciences (MUHS) examination, medical cadets of AFMC saw a pass percentage of 100 in MBBS.

This year, students are also slated to receive twelve out of sixteen gold medals being awarded by MUHS. Out of 118 students who graduated this year, 110 have joined the armed forces. Commenting on AFMC, Bangalore-based National Assessment and Accreditation Council said, "The teaching-learning methodology is student centric and the college needs to be commended for its efforts in producing work-books, study manuals, protocols and computer aided learning manuscripts. A notable feature of the various departments are the museums, which are a rich source of information for students…" Official delegations from the US armed forces, Army Medical Services (UK), Zambia, UAE, Israel and Maldives have visited AFMC from time to time.

Technical Stuff

The money spinners

The intake of engineering students is increasing and the packages being offered to them are higher than what is being doled out to the IT brigade. But, placements of IT graduates are higher simply because more IT professionals than engineers are needed in a corporate house

Aditi Thirani Eastside

Pune is now being known as the Silicon Valley of the country with more and more II firms deciding to set up base here. Colleges too are gearing up with higher student intake to keep abreast with market demands. In fact it has been noticed that the intake of engineering students is increasing and the packages being offered to them are higher than what is being doled out to the IT brigade. Prof. Ganesh Bhutkar of the department of computer engineering at VIT college felt even though an engineer earned more, IT students found placement offers more easily. "

A company that comes to pick up engineers from our college will take interviews of 100 students and choose four or five, whearas a company in search of IT talent will absorb most of the students put up by the institute. Engineering students in general require a higher aptitude than the IT lot," he says. Bhutkar adds, "Companies that come for campus placement can be broken up into two categories — Flower and bucket or truck companies. Flower companies are the ones that need few but high quality professionals. They pick up engineers in different fields - mechanical civil and the like. Bucket or truck companies pick up people in bulk.

It is not that they don’t need quality, it’s just that they require a particular kind of talent. It is here that IT students fit because they are absorbed in larger numbers." Agreeing on the high intake of IT students, Prof. Ashutosh Marathe says, "The aptitude required by IT students is lower that their engineering counterparts but demand is high. So once an IT student completes his course, he finds a job easily. On the engineering field you need to be both good and hardworking.

One reason behind this is, engineers from that field — mechanical or electronic — will be required to handle a particular project of the same field. In the IT world, students can find placement in most processes without having to be a specialist in any particular project." Prof. Shashank Joshi from Bharti Vidyapeeth says, "In engineering, a student cannot flit between the work of a civil engineer and a mechanical engineer. Their job profiles are different and the skillsets required are also not the same. The IT student on the other hand can move from one project to the other seamlessly."

So despite engineering graduates earning more, those in the IT stream can be lapped up faster. In the end the choice rests on the individual -- whether he is keen on a field that will get him placed almost immediately or one in which the placements may be fewer but earnings are higher.

Dance with a difference definitely..

A touch of Rajasthan

The Navchetna Kala Woman’s Organisation whose members comprise women from Rajasthan brings down dance troupes from Udaipur, holds workshops on personality development and provides a forum for community members to interact

Aditi Thirani Salisbury Park

The Navchetna Kala Woman’s Organisation whose members comprise women from Rajasthan helps them develop their interests and hobbies by conducting short-term courses and regularly organising dance programmes. The two year-old forum also holds workshops on personality development and cooking. Most of the Navchetna’s programmes are generally held at Salisbury Park.

Every programme generates huge response and Navchetna worshops have people flocking from different parts of the country. "Last year one of our programmes attracted 20 people from different states," says one of the organisers. In fact the dance troupe of Guddu Maharaj from Udaipur is so famous that he is invited regularly. "Even though I come all the way from there, I don’t mind coming back as the response I get is overwhelming," he says. Guddu Maharaj’s dance workshops that last for around 15 to 20 days teaches everything from the basics to the higher Rajasthani dance forms.

Once students are prepared, a stage show is arranged. Anjali Thakur, who has attended one of the workshops says, "I love this dance form which is simple but different and am looking forward to some more interesting programmes." During the 15-20 day workshop, students interact like one big happy family. "We have lots of fun while practicing and make lots of friends. It is a very refreshing experience," says one of the students Rashida. Navchetna is conducting a Rajasthani folk dance performance on July 6 at Tilak Smarak Mandir.

Rain Rain..So much Rain..

Rain plays havoc

Heavy rains that have been lashing the city for the past few days have left us with pot-holed roads, non functional signals and long hours of load shedding. Areas like Kalyani Nagar and Bhawani Peth seem to be bearing the brunt

Aditi Thirani

We were assured of better conditions this monsoon - no power cuts, good roads and less water logging. Somehow they seem to have remained promises on paper. Heavy rains that have been lashing the city for the past few days have left us with pot-holed roads, non functional signals and long hours of load shedding.

Areas like Aundh, Pashan, Baner, Kalyani Nagar and Bhawani Peth seem to be affected by both the rains and load shedding. The Camp area too has to put up with water logging that is taking place due to the collection of garbage. Plastic carry bags add to drainage problems as they stop the flow of water, resulting in choked drains at a number of places. "When it rains, garbage lying around societies and dumps flows into drains, resulting in their clogging," says Nicole Fernandes, a resident of Camp.

"Waterlogging is a major problem in our area. Thankfully there are not many problems relating to leaking sewage pipes, otherwise this area would be a hell hole," says Dnyanesh Phadtare, a resident of Bhawani Peth. Newly built roads are also causing chaotic traffic jams. "Traffic problems have started growing at Adlabs Chowk due to rubble of the newly built road lying on different stretches. Water collects near Kalyani Restaurant and on the mouth of Kalyaninagar near Gurunank Dairy. As a resident I face a lot of problems every morning," says Hari, a resident of Kalyaninagar.

Roadside rubble and concrete chips on Sus Road, Pashan are a great hazard for two-wheelers which have to drive at a snails pace while on this stretch. It may be mentioned here that the road has been tarred recently but it has become more dangerous because a road roller has not been used to level the uneven concrete pieces that are dangerously jutting out on the road. "This is very dangerous for us on two-wheelers. I travel by this route every morning to attend classes, praying that I don’t skid or slip. It’s difficult to gauge the depth of potholes and if it’s large the Scooty tyre just falls in," says Anu Shama, a resident of Aundh.

Recently water logging was so acute that a wall in the compound near theirs collapsed causing huge losses. "The first heavy showers led to collapse of the common compound wall of Gulmohar Apartments and Prime Heights. Rain water flowing from the nearby hill loosened the foundation and pushed against the wall, causing it to collapse. The debris were strewn around a radius of 15 feet, entering the parking lot of the adjoining society," says Anu. "Most residents in Vardayini Society on Sus Road are facing a similar problem," says Anu.

Adding to the problems of water logging are long spells of power cuts. Power cuts are so erratic in certain pockets of the city that sometimes they have known to go off for seven to twelve hours at a stretch. "Power cuts take place without warning these days. It’s so bad that you can’t prepare yourself or make plans in advance," says Nicole.

At times the power failure is so acute that water pumps and lifts are not able to function for two days at a stretch. "At times, during heavy rains there is a short circuit on the main electric pole. If this happens we have to go without electricity for days together," says Mandakini Phadtare a resident of Bhawani Peth. In fact, so acute is the power problem, that in many areas it goes off as soon as it starts raining. Driving at night through these pockets is a nightmare. Water logging and power cuts are making life difficult for Puneites who have to put up with loads of other problems during the monsoon.

On the wheels..

Skating champ

Luqman Shaikh is a class X student of Dastur Boys School. He bagged both the gold as well as silver medal, in the 12 to 14 age group, at the Roller Skating Championship in Kolkata

Aditi Thirani

Luqman Shaikh, a class X student of Dastur Boys School has done his city proud. He has won the gold as well as silver medal, in the 12-14 age group, at the national level, in the Roller Skating Championship held in Kolkata from May 14 to 20.

This is Luqman’s fourth national award. He has won more than 15 gold medals and no less than 30 silver, besides 20 bronze. He has been skating from the age of six. He practices for two hours everyday and also finds time for studies. Luqman has scored 65% in class IX and is looking forward to his board exams next year. His mother Nasreen Samad says her son does find it difficult at times to juggle both studies and his passion. "He gets really tired after practice, so it’s quite difficult managing studies and skating," she says.

Luqman is being coached by Pushkar Kulkarni, Pune’s only trainer who has been appointed as the country’s international official fitness trainer for the coming Columbia Championship. Nasreen says, "Luqman is very dedicated to this sport and his sir feels proud of calling him his student." Luqman’s principal at school, Lily Patel, has also been very cooperative and helpful. "It wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for her encouragement and support. After he finishes school, we are going to try for a college that gives him the support he enjoys at Dastur," says Nasreen.

After completing his class X, Luqman is looking forward to the international level Asians Championship, but is not looking to make a career out of this sport. "This is my hobby. I will continue it. Let’s see how things shape up later on," he says. "I am keen on becoming a dentist," says Luqman firmly. He likes unwinding by playing video games on his computer and football, which he indulges in, when he gets some time off from skating.

His father Abdul Samad is also proud of his son. Luqman’s elder brother Imran was also a skating champion. But, says Abdul, "He started late as compared to Luqman. He is now an engineer." To see that their son gets an opportunity at a global platform, Luqman’s parents are seeking permission for his participation in international events. Luqman with the help of all those around him is able to excel in a sport that the country is still getting used to. It certainly is a proud moment for his parents.

Huge Achievement..

Breaking new ground

Vineet Marathe won the Parkhe Award for developing an aluminium pod and fixtures for the Pinaka Multi Barrel Rocket Launching System

Aditi Thirani

It was an invention worthy of an award. Vineet Marathe of Vinarc Engineers won the prestigious Parkhe Award for developing an aluminium pod and fixtures for the Pinaka Multi Barrel Rocket Launching System.

The Pinaka is one of the elite weapons developed by the ARDE Pashan for the Indian Army. A major multi-technology system, the product involves partnerships from several private firms. The aluminium pod is one of the most critical sub-systems of the Pinaka rocket launching system. The aluminium assembly is designed to house six FRP launcher tubes in a 2x3 matrix, which houses the Pinaka rocket. The pod gives support to the launcher tubes and plays a vital role in the accuracy of the rocket system.

Since Pinaka rockets are unguided, everything depends on precision. The aluminium pod assembly has to be extremely light-weight. The manufacturing process of the assembly is a complex task requiring specialised welding fixtures so that it is a 100% distortion free structure. Vineet holds a master’s degree in metallurgy-welding from COEP. "I always had a keen interest in design, manufacturing and operational requirements of the aluminium pod assembly," says Vineet. His product has met the stringent norms specified by ARDE.

Vineet who has also won the PCMC Entrepreneur of The Year Award in 2006-07 is a member of Maratha Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture. The chamber has recognised over 400 entrepreneurs over 59 years of its existance. Vineet’s work has been certified by DRDO, ordnance factories and has been accepted by the Indian Army after strict quality checks by various quality assurance agencies. Production relating to Pinaka systems started in 2006.

Praising Vineet, an ARDE official said, "Such dedication of a private industrial partner is extremely rare. He has supplied the necessary welding fixtures and helped establish the production of aluminium pod assemblies at ordnance factories. We wish him the best of luck and look forward to work with him in developing futuristic high technology weapon systems."

Besides the Army, Vineet has worked as welding in charge at Telco. He has been at the helm of Vinarc Engineers on Prabhar Road for 12 years now. His other technical achievements include All India Welding Best Case Study Award and the patent for an innovative seating concept. He has also been a consultant with the PMC’s water pipeline project. "I now plan to start a training and consultancy institute, the Marathe Welding Cell for students, welders and managers.

Disco.. Station..Disco...

It’s party time folks

Discos have to keep on innovating to see that their clientele does not get bored with the same old style everyday. From celebrities and revolving dance floors to fire-proof bars and hydraulic lifts, Pune’s night clubs are taking giant strides

Aditi Thirani

It’s a city that takes pride in its night life. Be it discos, lounges or pubs, it certainly is difficult if not impossible to find place in a night spot on Saturday nights. But the new breed of youngsters also need to find something different to keep them coming back to the same disc or lounge bar every weekend. Yes, discos too have to keep incorporating new concepts to keep the flow of customers steady.

In fact so vibrant is the night life that Mumbaikars keep the comparisons going. "I like the Pune crowd. It certainly understands music and is very demanding. At least one gets space to move around on the dance floor here. It’s impossible to shake a leg in Mumbai discs these days because they are so crowded on weekends," says Ricky, a resident of Mumbai who spends his weekends here in Pune. Andy who works in Convergys says people have different options to pick and choose from. "If clubs get boring, people have the option of going to private parties," he says. Hence discos have to make sure that people don’t get tired of the same old style everyday.

Lush off Bund Garden Road is known for attracting the young college crowd. "We need to give the crowds something new everyday so we play Retro on Wednesdays, Rock on Thursdays, House on Fridays, Hip-Hop on Saturdays and Bollywood on Sundays," says Tehseen Poonawala, of Lush. The night club has a huge female fan-following simply because entry for women is free. "We come here because we feel safe and the crowd is not boisterous," says Anita, a second year BA student.

The club arranges for performances by DJ’s who have made a name for themselves nationally. From Akeel to Suketu, Nikhil and Ivon, they have all come to perform at Lush. "We are constantly trying to improve our music and give our customers what they want," says Tehseen. To keep the party circuit ticking, the club plays host to big names in showbiz from time to time. Ekta Kapoor, Aryan Vaid, Miss India Sarah-Jane and Pakistani singer Atif are some of the celebrities who have come on invitation to the night club.

Area 51 in Baner is another hot spot that has Puneites rocking. The special attraction here is the lighting and architecture. This disc boasts programmable LED lights - the first of its kind in the city. "Lights mounted on the thrust can be adjusted according to the occasion and preference of its audience," says the discos manager, operations, Manish Chaubal. The 15,000 sq/ft pillarless structure is made up of a cantilevered dome. It’s only when you feel the strobe lights flashing and hit the floor - 1,000 sq/ft of partying space - that you know the difference. "Our music is imported from France," says Manish.

Get onto the enclosed hydraulic lift as it uplifts your spirits. The disc looks like a spaceship from the outside while inside it comprises four levels — the first makes up the revolving dance floor, the second comprises the lounge level followed by the revolving level. The last level is the VIP level which provides a birds-eye view of the club and also a place for private parties. "The distinctive thing about this place is that one does not realise it is moving; one revolution takes around 90 minutes," says Manish. "The VIP level can accommodate 30 to 35 people and also facilitates the grand entry for a special performance," says Manish.

The DJ console is equipped with the latest mixers and sound system. "We have DJ’s like Ivon and Nikhil Chinnapa playing regularly. Apache Indian too performed here recently," says Manish. The top bars of the disc are fire-proof providing amble space for fire shows. The club remains open only on Saturdays. Entry for women is free before 11 pm and stags are not allowed. "Tanushree Dutta, Amrita Thapar, Aryan Vaid and Ekta Kapoor can be spotted here from time to time," says Manish. "The whole place looks like a spaceship. We want to project an image that whoever come in is taken for a ride," says Manish. Today innovation is what is keeping the clubs and discos ticking. "It’s bugging to see the same old-fashioned ways of partying. There should always be something different and interesting," says Pranav, who loves to unwind at a disco on weekends.

This one is for foodies..

It’s all about food

The new restaurants in Koregaon Park are theme-based, catering to a clientele preferring a particular kind of cuisine — Thai, Italian or Goan, there is no going back that the demanding customer is looking for that perfect meal

Aditi Thirani Koregaon Park

It’s the changing face of a city that is attracting it all big businesses, real estate and new eateries. A walk down Koregaon Park will certainly give you a feel of the restaurant-crazy Pune. From one end of the road to the other, criss-crossing both North and South Main Road, can be seen restaurants specialising in different cuisines to suit different tastes.

Situated near German Bakery in Koregaon Park, Masala Melange means a mixture of spices and specialises in both Thai and Continental food. The vibrant colours and lounge seating arrangement gives the place a calm and casual feel. The two-level restaurant with a see-through kitchen allows people to see the food as it is being prepared. With the range of cuisine stretching from Indian to Italian, there is a lot to pick and choose here.

According to manager Ketan Khanse, the transformation from South Indian to Thai has been a recent phenomenon. "We have recently made a shift from South Indian to Thai. Our pizzas and pastas are also very popular," he says. The restaurant changed its kitchen to Thai in November last year and is a hot favourite among corporates and foreigners alike. "I come with my colleagues and it’s a good place to discuss both home and work," says Atul Timgire a software engineer. "It’s summer so we have not made arrangements for outside seating. During the monsoon we are planning to have chairs under a tin roof," says Ketan.

If Italian interests you, head straight for Squisito in Lane 5 of Koregaon Park. The restaurant specialises in Mexican, Lebanese and Italian cuisine. The restaurant’s theme is Italian and everything is inspired by Italy - inclusing of course it’s live kitchen. Asif Shaikh, the restaurant’s manager says, "We started out in December last year and have tried to give the restaurant an Italian feel.". Regulars love the Machos with Refried Bean. The Lebanese Falafel and Mexican crispy chilly balls are well worth a try. "It is the inviting atmosphere that makes me feel good," says Jeet Singh a frequent visitor. Sudhir Ahuja, a resident of Koregaon Park says his girlfriend loves the restaurant. "My girlfriend likes the kind of vibe this place has. I feel at home here."

If it’s sea food you’re after then the place to head is Casa De Goa in Kalyani Nagar. As the name implies, it is a Goan restaurant offering an array of sea food. The restaurant has been in operation since February and the name simply translated means house of Goa. The dishes to swoon over include Prawn Balchao, Lobster Goan Masala, Squids in Butter Garlic besides the Chicken Vindaloo. The ambience is worth a mention. The lighting and wall hangings give the restaurant a very Goan feel.

"People come here from across the city," says manager Arun Raina. "I like the variety of soups on offer and my family which loves Goa and its cuisine keeps wanting to come back to this restaurant," says Kunal Sapru, a garmets exporter in Koregaon Park. "The popularity of this eatery has spurred us on to think of opening a Kashmiri restaurant," says Arun. It seems the market is moving from the conventional restaurant that churns up a range of multi-cuisine delights to one that is theme based, preparing food specific to a country or a state.

A noble cause..

Greenpeace: Making a mark

The organisation that has seen a huge global fan-following with its campaigns stretching from Alaska to New Zealand finds Pune a place where people sit up and take notice. It is keen to tap multiplexes and shopping malls in the city with its awareness campaigns

Aditi Thirani Eastside

We’ve heard about them stopping ships carrying toxic waste in the Atlantic, we have also seen them rescuing wales beached on Australian shores; now we find them outside banks and corporate houses in Pune, lobbying support against global warming and pollution.

Greenpeace, the international NGO, has finally found a footing in Pune - thanks to its young and enthusiastic members who mainly comprise the city’s college-going fraternity. According to Greenpeace’s territory manager Chandrani Chatterjee, climate change is a very serious topic that cannot be neglected. "Everyone will be affected. If we don’t wake up to this now, carbon emissions will touch 50% by 2050," she says. Started in 1971, Greenpeace which is present in 42 countries, came to India in 1994 but started active campaigning not before 2001.

In India the organisation is present in eight cities including Pune. "People in other countries are aware of our organisation and the work we do, but here in India, very few people know about us," says Chandrani. It was in April 2004 that Greenpeace set up base in Pune. This year activists launched ’Ban the Bulb Campaign’. "Regular bulbs consume a lot of electricity. So to conserve power and at the same time save costs we have asked people to use CFL’s. In order to lobby government support, we met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in February this year," says Chandrani.

To enlighten people about the advantages of conserving power, the organisation has started what it calls a signature petition campaign. "Pune is receptive and people are very cooperative here. Every six out of 10 people listen to us. This way our job becomes easier," says Chandrani. Their campaign is divided into three parts — street, corporate and shopping malls. Campaigns on streets include standing outside banks where Direct Dialogue Recruiters as they are known, make people aware of the problems around them.

Activists can be seen addressing people in parking lots of banks. "Banks serve as an ideal platform for spreading awareness simply because educated people who are keen listeners come here for their routine transactions," says Chandrani. Boys and girls from the IT and BPO sector sign up as volunteers making Greenpeace’s job easier. At other venues, activists show short documentaries about what Greenpeace is doing, so that people get a better understanding of the organisation. "When it comes to listening, it is very difficult to explain everything. After all things do get monotonous and repetitive after a while. So we show them documentaries. It leaves a greater impact on the mind," says Chandrani.

Greenpeace is also in talks with multiplex owners so that their movies can be screened "I will be approaching the City Pride multiplex for this. If we are able to get cinema theatres involved, we will be reaching out to many more people at one go" says Chandrani. "Shopping malls also serve as a good medium to connect with the general masses. S G S Mall is one the malls we approached. "We got a huge response there. We are planning to have our activists stationed at more places like this so that more and more people become aware of the cause we are working for. I am also keen on making presentations at the walking plaza on Main Street," says Chandrani.

Greenpeace has also covered the whole of Hinjewadi. Names like Infosys, EDS, Patni Canbay and Wipro have given them a boost. Wipro, says Chandrani, "replied very positively to the E-waste campaign we held. The campaign was started so that E-waste could be saved and reused. Wipro had a recycle unit in place by July this year". Greenpeace activists have also given presentations in schools. Activists have shown documentaries in schools like St. Mira’s, DAV Aundh and St. Vincent. Rotary Clubs have also been covered in their campaigns.

Greenpeace activists can also be seen in housing societies and residential areas. Most recruits who help the organisation are college going students. "In Pune most of our representatives are under-grads or graduates. Today’s youngsters are aware of almost everything. We keep them updated on happenings through the mail," says Chandrani. Many students who have spare time like to use it for a good cause and connect very well with the masses. "We have around 21 representatives in Pune. Most of our staff comprise young freshers and this is the lot that comes up with great ideas," says Chandrani.

Greenpeace is also finding a good support base in the city. "The number of supporters in Pune is going to cross 8,000. Many of our supporters are from the IT sector and include software professionals," she says. "Since we have no middle men involved in the collection of funds, it goes directly go to our organisation. We need financial help to function but at the same time are very stringent when it comes to taking help. In the Western world, every second person is a Greenpeace supporter. We don’t accept cash, nor do we take help from any company or organisation. We work on individual contributions only," says Chandrani.

With World Environment Day fast approaching, Greenpeace is putting together its awareness campaigns in the city. "We are definitely making plans for that day and would like to make the most out of it," says Chandrani. "In today’s world where people are working for their own gains, we at Greenpeace are working for the betterment of the planet. To get our message across loud and clear we are also trying to rope in big names. It is celebrities and captains of industry that will create a direct impact in peoples’ hearts," signs off Chandrani.

Beautiful Evening..

A walk with the family

The Pune Cantonment Board is going all out to promote its weekend walking plaza on Main Street as an entertainment zone. With puppet shows for children and the army band playing foot-tapping music, Main Street is fast turning into a regular weekend hang-out

Aditi Thirani M G Road

It’s a whole new experience walking along Main Street on weekends. On Saturday and Sunday evening the street takes on a decorative look, thanks to the efforts of the Pune Cantonment Board which is going all out to promote it as an entertainment zone for Puneites and visitors alike. From de-addiction programmes to puppet shows for children, the Cantonment Board is going all out to provide shoppers with the thrill of having fun while picking up a thing or two for family and friends.

In fact performances by the military band and the NDA received overwhelming response. Even the Air Force chipped in with a demonstration. Children too are kept enthralled by puppet shows and mimicary artists. However, one section of the Camp Merchants’ Association is not happy with the idea of turning the area into a walking plaza. A shopowner who prefers to remain anonymous says, "Business definitely gets affected. Serious shoppers who come for specific items and look at parking vehicles near shops, buying and moving out, find it difficult to come on weekends."

But others like Paresh Bhudani of Bhudani and Sons feels the city is getting used to the idea of Main Street being declared a walking plaza on weekends. "Mahatma Gandhi Road or Main Street as it is better known has been declared a walking plaza from February 2006 and people are getting used to it. For us though it doesn’t make much of a difference," he says. In fact some shopkeepers have even reported increased footfalls. People on their part though are happy with the idea of a walking plaza.

A survey conducted by the Cantonment Board revealed that 95 percent of its sample customers are keen on continuing with the walking plaza. According to Sachin Gaikwad, who enjoys window shopping with his friends on weekends, "I like to come here on Saturdays and Sundays because the whole area takes on a festive look with family’s eating, shopping or simply watching the various live performances. It not only helps us relax and unwind but also keeps us walking - giving us a forced exercise that we so badly need. Ashwini Jadhav, a resident of Shankar Sheth Road on her part says, "The atmosphere is pleasant here and I like coming with my family".

Kids are seen skating and playing while their parents are haggling in shops. "My children love it here. They can run and play without having to watch out for approaching vehicles." says Sarita Mundada. Of course there are days in the calendar when the walking plaza is shut down on weekends. This is done to allow processions and religious gatherings to pass through without clogging the city’s other artery roads.

Cantonment officials, by making regular announcements, make it a point to let shoppers know in advance about the events being held on weekends. Notices are also put up to keep people updated. All in all, the efforts of the Cantonment Board have given Puneites something to look forward to on weekends.

All new buses in the city..

Volvos to drive city

Air-conditioned Volvo buses introduced by the Pune Municipal Corporation on a few city routes have generated enthusiastic response. Not only are fares the same as normal PMT buses, facilities like an in-built music system and kneeling mechanism in the Volvos are incomparable

Aditi Thirani

In an attempt to ease congestion on city roads and at the same time give public transport a boost, the Pune Municipal Corporation has introduced air-conditioned Volvo buses. The service which started on December 3 with a fleet of 10 buses has generated good response. The present routes - Swargate to Katraj, Swargate to Hadapsar and Katraj to Hadapsar - will be increased so that more areas are covered.

In fact PMT’s labour and public relations officer Vijay Pardeshi says, the concept of introducing luxury buses on short routes has been proved successful globally. "It is a huge undertaking and this is just the beginning with almost 70 per cent of the work remaining to be done." At present the buses cover a distance of between 5 to 15 km and inspite of the project being halfway from its completion point, it is generating tremendous response. And all this is because commuters are getting more value for money. The fares are the same as normal PMT buses, the facilities incomparable - fully air-conditioned with an inbuilt music system.

To ensure that routes are not clogged the PMT is making dedicated bus bays and hopes to achieve a frequency of one bus every 10 minutes. Buses have also been made keeping the comfort and convenience of handicapped persons and senior citizens in mind. Not only do these buses have reserved seats for the elderly, they also incorporate a system known as the ’Kneeling Mechanism’. This system enables a handicapped or an old person to board the bus without having to climb up or step down.

The bus can seat 38 passengers while 20 people can travel standing. The PMT proposes to take no more than 60 passengers per trip to ensure the bus is not over-crowded. The first bus will roll out at 6.30 in the morning and the last bus will go back at 10.30 pm. Passengers availing the service include residents of Katraj who are working in software firms in Hadapsar. According to Deepak Kapoor who works in a corporate at Magarpatta City, the bus is a boon. "I am very happy with the service. I no longer have to sweat it out while reaching office. Thanks to these Volvos, I have changed my opinion about Pune’s public transport," he says.

Others like him are also a happy lot. "If I can travel this way to the city, I will never feel the need of using my own vehicle," says Ashwin Chandok, who works in Hadapsar. The PMT feels this project will win over those who are shying away from public transport. "Good things take a while to come into effect. It is the cooperation of the people that will help us reap the benefits of this project. We see a successful future ahead," says Pardeshi.

A look at Gyms in Pune

Gyms - stretching beyond fitness

Be it Talwalkar’s, Gold’s or Abs - Pune’s gyms have changed the concept of exercising. It’s no more a mere place to pump iron and develop those six-inch biceps. Gyms today are all about working out together, de-stressing with friends and enjoying parties with members

Aditi Thirani Koregaon Park

It’s a whole new culture that Puneites are waking up to every morning. Working out or following up with a daily exercise regime at the gym as is commonly known. Gyms in Pune have taken on a new look. They are no more mere workout stations. They have gone way beyond their rugged and macho image. Today’s gyms are slic, smart and have that "come again" feel good look. Gaurav who works in a law firm says he goes to Talwalkar’s at Koregaon Park to de-stress and unwind. "It’s a place to make new friends and meet people from different backgrounds," he says. Gone are the days when both men and women had separate timings. Today both sexes are encouraged to work-out together. "I try not to miss out on my gym sessions every evening where I have made a good set of friends. It feels relaxing after a hectic day at office, " says Gaurav.

Gyms today are considered a way of life. It goes hand in glove with an upmarket lifestyle. Thanks to stress on fitness worldwide, gyms have become a part and parcel of daily living. Gyms like Gold’s are known for the parties they throw, outings they arrange and seminars they host to keep members updated with the goings on around them. Recently the gym arranged a screening of Spider-Man III for all its members. Good music, peppy CDs and air-conditioned environs are what today’s gyms are all about says Sanjay as an instructor at Talwalkar’s. "Crowds today are looking for good music, clean and friendly environs and a relaxed feel at the gym."

Abs in fact boasts a DJ in all its branches. Statistics at most gyms show the number of people enrolling are rising everyday. And the age group is not confined to the 20 plus or teenage bracket. Forty and 50 year-olds are today’s gym freaks who move from aerobics to cardio-vascular exercises with ease and flit from weights to the tread mill without showing signs of fatigue or muscle pull. And yes, gyms are increasingly encouraging potential customers to check out facilities before joining. Some of Pune’s gyms are also offering free trials. Gold’s, Abs and Talwalkars offer discounts stretching to 50% and packages to take you through the summer. Family membership at huge discounts are also being given to help the family unwind and exercise as a unit. After all, it’s not for nothing that a snob value has been attached to gyms today.

The tough one..

A chaotic mess

Kalyani Nagar with its shopping malls like Lifestyle and multiplexes like Gold Adlabs is fast becoming the city’s favourite destination after Koregaon Park. But thanks to a broken divider in front of Gold Adlabs, commuters are having a harrowing time at the crossing

Aditi Thirani Kalyaninagar

It is fast becoming the new "Happening Pune". Kalyani Nagar with its state of the art showrooms and shopping malls like Lifestyle and multiplexes like Gold Adlabs has become the city’s favourite destination after Koregaon Park. Not only is it catching up with youngsters, the area has also become the haunt of those looking for apartments in upmarket Pune.

But despite everything going in its favour, traffic at the intersection around Lifestyle and Gold Adlabs at one end and the restaurant Kalyani at the other is chaotic in the morning and evenings when congestion is at its peak. Residents commuting to office in the morning have to go through the harrowing experience of seeing motorists cutting across from all corners while negotiating the half constructed divider bang in front of Gold Adlabs.

The divider which seems to be getting smaller by the day, has turned into a traffic hazard, giving motorists the leeway to cut across its broken stretches while taking a U-turn at Gold Adlabs. It’s not only residents who have to put up with the chaotic traffic. Those having their offices near the traffic intersection too face a similar experience.

The problem is compounded as traffic along the stretch includes moviegoers who come to buy advance show tickets. "During the day the intersection is calm. It’s at night when the both the malls — Lifestyle and Gold Adlabs — start filling up that the problem begins. Cars, rickshaws and two-wheelers compete with each other to cross the traffic light at the intersection. Construction around the area ensures that heavy vehicles like trucks clog up the small road, choc-o-bloc with rush-hour traffic," says Anu Sundaresam, who lives in one of the swanky highrises in the area. There is obviously going to be no respite in the area unless the divider is constructed properly. Security in charge of GoldAdlabs Sanjay says, "The white stands you see along the divider have been put up by us and not the Pune Municipal Corporation. If we had not put them up, problems would have compounded."

The chaos reaches a peak on Fridays and Saturdays when office-goers have to jostle with shoppers to negotiate the intersection. The signal at the crossing too has lately become unpredictable and stops working when it is needed the most - during peak hours. "Most jams are caused by trucks carrying sand and construction material trying to cut across through the broken divider. At night, when I come home from office, it is a nightmare. I have to be very careful while driving along the Adlabs road, lest I bang into someone or another car hits my vehicle from behind. And in all this if the signal stops functioning, there is chaos as I end up getting stuck there for another 45 minutes," says Sandeep, a resident of the area.

It’s not that traffic cannot be managed along this stretch. It is the divider that is causing all the confusion, say commuters. "The problem starts when people take U-turns, cutting across the broken divider. The gap is so wide that big vehicles too can pass through easily. Those who break the rules muscle their way across traffic and get out of the jam in no time. It is people like us, the ones who follow rules, that end up waiting the longest," adds Sandeep.

My First Article

Eat within your budget

The Camp area is known for its eating joints that churn out dishes for under Rs 100. These restaurants are frequented by both college goers and family’s alike who swear by the taste and ambience, both of which promise a repeat customer

Aditi Thirani Camp

The city is known for its hotels, restaurants and pubs. The budgets and range of cuisine available is varied. From a South Indian ’dosa’ for Rs 25 to the very Italian Fetuchinni for Rs 450, the city has it all. Areas like Camp are known as much for their budget hotels as they are for their top of the line ones. It’s not difficult to find a place to eat with Rs 100 in your pocket.

Walk down Main Street and you can’t miss Marz-O-Rin which has been around since 1965. According to Deepali Chawan, who loves to go shopping with her children on MG Road once a week, Marz-O-Rin is affordable and provides a place to sit. "My two kids have a chutney sandwich while I go for a cold coffee. It’s become such a habit these days - with their school closed for the summer — that they look forward to the outing and their sandwich." Marz-O-Rin’s owner Vijay Sheriar Sheriyarji says it is a family restaurant. "People of all age groups come here. Our cheese and chicken burgers are the most popular. The cold coffee at around Rs 30 is also a sought after beverage," she says.

If you love ’pav bhaaji’ and dosas then you should be sitting in Mona Foods. Occupying pride of place in Main Street for over 30 years, this restaurant has a clientele that dotes on its ’chana-batura’. The Punjabi and ’paneer’ specialities are all priced under Rs 100 and the air-conditioned confines make it a cosy outlet for tired shoppers.

If it’s a burger in a budget, go straight to Burger King on Pulgate. It not only gives you space to unwind, it also helps you catch up with the latest news or a pulsating cricket match on the huge television screen. It’s a favourite haunt among college goers and window shoppers who stop for a bite or two before moving on with their shopping. Ritu Sharma a first year science student says its Burger King’s cheesy potato burger she looks forward to each time she comes to Pulgate. "Me and my friends come here quite often. After we’ve moved around, we head straight for Burger King where we each order a burger with a coke. We laugh and joke for an hour or so in the restaurant before heading for home." Who says a hundred rupee note can get you virtually nothing these days!

Introduction

As you can see in the pic..multi tasking is in ma blood..and it keeps me goin..i love learning..knowledge of any kind is vital for me..its kinda unusual for me not to be able to communicate wid someone..i can set a link wid one and all..and wid an ease..love smartness more than intelligence..presense of mind than plannin..tats me..neither black nor white..only grey..common now tats not scary...!!