Encroachers Take Over S M Ghule Chowk in Mohammadwadi: Pune Citizens Blame Criminal Nexus and Civic Apathy
Mohammadwadi, 14th September 2025: What was once a vital junction connecting NIBM Annexe to the rest of Pune is now slipping into chaos. Citizens say S M Ghule Chowk has become the epicenter of lawlessness, with public spaces systematically encroached upon, civic infrastructure captured by vested interests, and residents pushed to the margins.
Footpaths Vanish, Pedestrians Pushed Into Traffic
Pedestrian pathways have been swallowed by unauthorized hawkers, food stalls, and illegal sheds, many of which locals allege are backed by criminal elements and local toughs. Women, children, and the elderly are forced to walk on the road, weaving between rickshaws, water tankers, and delivery vans.
“We’re one accident away from a tragedy. And the authorities will still act surprised,” said Anjali Deshpande, a resident of Raheja Vista.
Traffic Bottlenecks by Design
Residents claim the traffic jams are not just due to volume but deliberate obstruction. Illegal parking, roadside stalls, and delivery trucks blocking lanes have created daily gridlocks. “This isn’t congestion; this is capture,” a commuter remarked.
Locals Intimidated Into Silence
Several residents say those who complain face threats and intimidation. Some of the hawkers are allegedly linked to local syndicates using petty trade as a front for gradual land grabbing.
“This is not random. It’s a strategy to grab land piece by piece. Public space is being eaten alive,” said a shopkeeper, requesting anonymity for fear of retaliation.
Upscale Locality Losing Value
Noise, garbage, air pollution, and fear of conflict have eroded the quality of life. What was marketed as an upscale pocket is now plagued with chaos, with property values reportedly dipping. “We’re paying premium prices to live in a slum-in-the-making,” said one resident.
Authorities Accused of Looking Away
Despite repeated complaints, photos, and videos submitted to the PMC, Pune Traffic Police, and corporators, residents allege no meaningful action has been taken. Token anti-encroachment drives have failed to bring lasting relief.
“It’s not just apathy — it’s beginning to look like collusion. Who is protecting these encroachers?” asked Rohit Naik, member of the Civic Rights Action Forum.
“This Is a Takeover, Not Just Encroachment”
Urban experts caution that the situation at S M Ghule Chowk reflects a larger pattern of public spaces being taken over under civic inaction. If unchecked, they warn, the problem could spill over into neighboring areas.
Citizens’ Demands
Residents have issued a charter of demands for immediate action:
- Permanent removal of illegal hawkers and structures.
- Deployment of traffic police and municipal wardens.
- Daily patrolling to prevent re-encroachment.
- A probe into alleged criminal elements operating in the area.
- Accountability from PMC and elected representatives.
Unless decisive steps are taken, citizens fear S M Ghule Chowk could soon become a symbol of civic collapse in Pune.
