Pune’s ₹12 Crore Monthly Funding Gap Puts 5.43-Acre Koregaon Park Land in Focus

Pune, August 27, 2026: Pune Cantonment Board is exploring the commercial use of a 5.43-acre defence land parcel in Koregaon Park to create a sustainable revenue source for the cash-strapped civic body. The prime property could generate several crores in income if approval is granted for commercial utilisation.
Board Struggles With ₹12 Crore Monthly Expenses
The Pune Cantonment Board currently needs around ₹12 crore every month to meet salaries, pensions and basic expenses such as water and electricity. However, its monthly revenue is reportedly only around ₹2 crore, forcing it to depend heavily on grants from the Ministry of Defence.
The board received ₹25 crore in financial assistance from the ministry two months ago to meet its expenses.
Koregaon Park Land Could Become Revenue Source
The 5.43-acre fenced parcel is classified as ‘C’ land and is under the management of the cantonment board. Officials believe its location in one of Pune's high-value real estate markets could make it a significant source of recurring revenue.
A proposal has already been submitted to the Principal Directorate of Defence Estates, Southern Command, seeking the required sanction for commercial utilisation.
PPP or Rental Model Under Consideration
Once approval is received, the board plans to assess the property's commercial potential and decide on an appropriate development model. Options could include a commercial complex through public-private partnership (PPP) or infrastructure developed by the board itself and subsequently rented out.
The board is also awaiting approval to commercially utilise its old court land parcel on MG Road.
Experts Warn Against Long-Term Private Control
Real estate experts and activists have advised the board to conduct an independent valuation and detailed feasibility study before finalising any development model.
They have suggested long-term leasing, rental or revenue-sharing models that allow the cantonment board to retain ownership while generating recurring income. Experts also stressed the need for transparent tendering, competitive bidding and clearly defined lease conditions.
Grihik Takeaway: A prime 5.43-acre parcel in Koregaon Park could become a valuable long-term revenue asset for the Pune Cantonment Board. For the real estate market, the key question will be how the land is commercially developed while ensuring that public ownership and long-term revenue potential are protected.