Pune Municipal Corporation Launches Major Anti-Encroachment Operation
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) executed a significant demolition drive on Wednesday, targeting unauthorized constructions across the city's Lohegaon and Nagar Road localities. Civic authorities demolished at least 18 illegal structures spanning a massive 78,000 square feet during the coordinated operation.
Scope and Nature of Demolished Structures
The razed constructions included a mix of concrete buildings and temporary tin sheds, with both residential and commercial properties facing action. Among the establishments targeted was the popular Rameshwaram Cafe in Vimannagar, though attempts to contact the eatery's management proved unsuccessful as their phone remained switched off.
PMC officials emphasized that the demolition drive specifically focused on structures violating side and front margin regulations of properties in these areas. The action followed proper legal procedures and notifications to property owners before enforcement measures were implemented.
Legal Framework and Notification Process
The demolition operation was conducted under the provisions of the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR), which operates in conjunction with the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act of 1966. According to standard procedure, when building permission violations are identified, authorities first issue notices under Section 53 of the MRTP Act.
"These notices direct property owners to either remove unauthorized constructions or regularize them within a specified timeframe," explained civic officials. In this particular case, some establishments also received notices under Section 267 of the MRTP Act before facing demolition action.
Official Statement and Future Plans
Somnath Bankar, head of PMC's anti-encroachment department, stated: "The PMC gave notices to the owners of these properties. They were asked to raze the illegal constructions, but they did not comply. Consequently, they faced appropriate action. The civic body remains committed to continuing such drives against unauthorized constructions."
The demolition drive represents PMC's ongoing efforts to enforce urban planning regulations and maintain proper development standards throughout Pune. Property owners who fail to address violations after receiving official notifications risk similar enforcement actions as the municipal corporation intensifies its anti-encroachment initiatives across the city.
