India, June 8 -- Cities often spend decades searching for land to create public spaces, transport corridors and green networks. Pune may soon find itself in the unusual position of inheriting one.

The proposed Khadakwasla-Phursungi underground tunnel project is primarily being constructed as a water infrastructure initiative. Once completed, it will replace large sections of the Mutha Right Bank Canal that currently pass through the city. The immediate benefit is obvious as it will reduce water loss through seepage and evaporation. But the bigger urban planning question lies elsewhere. What should happen to the land occupied by the canal once water starts flowing underground?

Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has moved quickly to secure ...