Pune's Iconic Skatepark Vanishes, Leaving Young Athletes in Despair
Eleven-year-old skateboarder Dhyan Joshi gazed forlornly at a deep pit and piles of rubble on Pashan-Sus Road in Pune. Until recently, this spot was a vibrant stretch lined with smooth concrete ramps, bustling with enthusiastic athletes of all ages. "The place that inspired me to learn skateboarding has vanished into thin air. Some new road is being built here," Dhyan lamented.
A Community Hub Lost to Infrastructure Development
Dhyan, a four-time national medal winner in skateboarding, discovered this skatepark after the Covid-19 pandemic. "I saw other skateboarders practising here and instantly knew I wanted to be part of this community. I could come here any time of the day. The trees provided shade in the afternoon heat. I owe it to this space for introducing me to the sport," he told TOI.
The 150-meter stretch, popularly known as 'Pune Skate Spot', was part of the Pune Municipal Corporation's (PMC) 'Streets For People Challenge' project in 2022. It aimed to create engaging 'experience zones' for citizens on pavements. The initiative began in 2021 when Dinkar Gojare, then-executive engineer of the road department, noticed skateboarders practising on JM Road during less crowded hours.
Gojare observed their talent but recognized the inadequate infrastructure. As he was also overseeing Pashan-Sus Road development, he proposed a dedicated skatepark. With senior approval, 'Pune Skate Spot' was born as a free, accessible venue for this niche recreational activity.
Collaborative Design and National Pride
The zone cost approximately Rs 20 lakh to build. "We took inputs from skateboarders and their mentor while designing it. It was a great collaborative project. Having so many skateboarders practising there and winning nationally, even internationally, is a source of immense pride," Gojare stated.
Pune has long been a pioneer in promoting skateboarding. In 2015, it inaugurated India's first government-funded skatepark in Sahakarnagar. The athletes have excelled, with many participating in national and international events and securing podium finishes.
Young Talent Faces Setbacks
Yoshiro Sarkar, a 12-year-old skateboarder, broke into the world rankings at spot 178 out of 203 in 2026, the only Indian on the list. He started learning on the Pashan-Sus Road stretch. "The regulars there taught me everything. I love that skateboarding has so much to explore. There's always a new trick to master," said Yoshiro, who lives on Baner Pashan Link Road. "When I found out the stretch was dug up, I felt extremely sad."
Yoshiro recently participated in the Skateboarding World Championships São Paulo 2025. His father, Sandeep Sarkar, aims to get him exposure for the 2028 Olympics. "These competitions are learning grounds. I hope he inspires others," Sandeep said.
Community Appeals for Alternative Space
Swapnil Magar, a coach with the Roller Skating Federation of India, helped design the skatepark. "It was encouraging for our community. Several athletes progressed here. Today, half the park is broken down for an infrastructure project. This was the only free park in the city. Private venues are expensive and far away. We request unhindered access to a free skatepark," Magar emphasized.
The demolition has increased costs for athletes. Yashodhan Patil, a BBA student, now uses a private skatepark in Bavdhan, costing around Rs 2,000 monthly. "The park isn't too clean, and we face issues with staff. We can only go early mornings due to heat and poor lighting. It restricts our practice, especially with national tournaments approaching," he explained.
Dev Vankore, a skateboarder for 10 years, traveled from Katraj to Pashan-Sus Road. "The earlier park was free, a huge plus. We were part of its design, so it's close to our hearts. It was dedicated and open, which is irreplaceable," said Dev, a barista by profession.
Official Response and Future Prospects
Dinkar Gojare, now Chief Engineer (Projects) at PMC, explained the necessity of the grade separator project due to accidents at the junction. "This project has been delayed by paperwork and funding issues. I haven't forgotten about the skatepark. I will look at alternatives, such as coordinating with ward offices or converting amenity spaces. We'll find the best solution," he assured.
The loss of 'Pune Skate Spot' highlights the tension between urban development and preserving community sports infrastructure. As young athletes struggle to continue their passion, the hope for a new, accessible skatepark remains a pressing issue in Pune.
