Pune: Encroachment by Used Car Dealers in Hadapsar Disrupts Traffic, Endangers Pedestrians

Hadapsar, 19th July 2025: Encroachments by used car dealerships along key stretches of Hadapsar, particularly between Magarpatta and Shankar Math Chowk, have become a growing menace, causing traffic bottlenecks, endangering pedestrians, and exposing gaping holes in municipal enforcement.

While the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and traffic police have taken action against street vendors and illegal structures in several parts of Hadapsar, residents say the illegal parking and takeover of public spaces by car dealers remain largely unchecked.

Hadapsar has seen a rapid expansion of the used car market, especially along its main roads. With hundreds of vehicles parked for display or resale, dealers have taken over footpaths, cycling lanes, and even vehicle lanes, leaving little space for public movement.

Pedestrians, especially senior citizens and schoolchildren, are now forced to walk on the busy main roads, putting them at risk of accidents. Cyclists also face the brunt of these illegal takeovers, as cycle tracks are rendered unusable.

“Authorities are quick to penalize small hawkers, but these commercial violators continue to operate in plain sight. Why the double standards?” asked a frustrated commuter who uses the stretch daily.

Areas near Magarpatta Bridge, especially on the city-bound side, frequently witness traffic slowdowns due to cars parked right up to the edge of the road. Vehicles turning toward Magarpatta’s western gate often get stuck in long queues created by these encroachments, increasing travel time and causing frustration among road users.

Rajendra Karankot, Senior Inspector at the Hadapsar Traffic Division, admitted that the issue is serious. “There’s already considerable congestion on Hadapsar’s internal and arterial roads. These car dealers are now encroaching on spaces meant for pedestrians and cyclists. We’ve received numerous complaints, and enforcement drives will be initiated,” he said.

From the PMC’s Wanwadi Regional Office, Encroachment Inspector Mahesh Marne confirmed that notices will soon be served to the offending dealers. “We get daily grievances from citizens. Notices will be issued immediately, and if dealers fail to respond, we will take strict legal action,” he assured.

Citizens are now demanding uniform application of the law, regardless of the violator’s size or influence. They warn that unless decisive and impartial action is taken soon, Hadapsar’s already strained traffic system could descend into further chaos, posing a significant threat to both safety and urban discipline.