Pune: PMC Demolishes 24 Illegal Structures in Lohgaon’s Air Force Buffer Zone
Lohgaon, 25th June 2025: In a major crackdown on unauthorized construction, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) on Tuesday demolished 24 illegal structures erected within the 900-meter restricted buffer zone of the Indian Air Force (IAF) bomb dump in the Lohgaon area.
The action, carried out by the PMC’s Construction Department, targeted approximately 48,000 square feet of illegal development that had encroached upon sensitive defence and agricultural zones. The demolition was executed with the help of multiple JCBs, cutters, and a heavy police presence to prevent any disruption during the operation.
Illegal Constructions Violated Defense Buffer Norms
According to PMC officials, the constructions were not only within the 100-meter restricted radius of the Air Force protection wall, but also on land designated as agricultural zone, violating multiple urban planning and national security regulations.
“These structures were recently built without permissions in a highly sensitive area, putting both civilian and defense security at risk,” said Deputy Engineer Irfan Sheikh, who led the demolition drive.
Notices Issued, Then Bulldozers Rolled In
All 24 property owners had previously been served demolition notices by the civic body. Despite this, the constructions continued, prompting PMC to take direct action.
The operation was carried out under the supervision of Executive Engineer S.M. Salve, with Deputy Engineers Irfan Sheikh and Saurabh Khurad, supported by a dedicated team of municipal officials and police personnel.
High Security Deployment
To ensure that law and order were maintained, a heavy police force was deployed throughout the demolition drive. The affected residents expressed frustration over the action, citing financial losses, though PMC officials clarified that multiple warnings had been ignored.
PMC: More Action to Follow
Municipal officials have indicated that similar illegal developments in buffer zones and no-development areas will be identified and acted upon.
“The safety of defense installations is non-negotiable. Further action against violators will continue as per rules,” said an official from the PMC.
