The state excise department has identified 25 villages in Pune district where illicit liquor units are still operational. Notices have been issued to the respective gram panchayats, instructing them to halt such activities and immediately report any suspicious operations. This action follows recent hooch tragedies in Phugewadi (Pimpri Chinchwad) and Pandharemala (Hadapsar), which claimed 20 lives between May 26 and 28.
Notices Issued to Gram Panchayats
Confirming the move, state excise superintendent Atul Kanade stated that the notices, sent via the Pune collectorate, cover villages including Sortapwadi, Kunjirwadi, Nandur (near Yavat), Rajewadi, Bhosalewadi, and Apti in Shirur taluka, among others. “The gram panchayats have been told not to allow illegal liquor production within their jurisdictions and to promptly alert authorities or the police if any such activity is detected. Contact numbers of excise officials have also been shared with residents to facilitate quick reporting,” he said.
Reasons for Proliferation
Excise officials noted that many of these villages are located near Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad cities with easy access to water sources, making them favorable for illicit liquor production. “Several are situated along canal networks, such as the Mutha Right Bank Canal or near rivers, ensuring a steady water supply. Besides, some units operate from isolated spots, including government-owned land, enabling operators to evade enforcement,” an official explained.
Supply and Consumption
Kanade revealed that the liquor produced in these areas is largely supplied to slum settlements in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad, as well as industrial hubs like Chakan and Ranjangaon, where it is consumed by factory workers.
Challenges in Reporting
A gram panchayat member from a village along the Pune-Solapur highway alleged that residents often face threats from those involved in the illegal trade. The member claimed that some operators might have backing from certain police personnel, making it difficult for locals to report such activities.
Enforcement Actions
Since May 28, the department has registered 142 cases and arrested 116 individuals linked to illicit liquor manufacturing.
Recovery of Patients
In a positive development, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) announced that all three patients admitted to the civic-run Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial (YCM) Hospital after consuming spurious liquor in the Phugewadi hooch case have fully recovered and been discharged. They were brought in critical condition and received free treatment, including intensive care, continuous monitoring, and medical investigations under specialist supervision. PCMC medical officer Dr. Laxman Gophane credited timely intervention and prompt care for preventing complications and enabling their safe return home.
