Pune: Illegal Market or Unauthorised Collections? PMC Corporator Seeks Probe in Mohammadwadi

Mohammadwadi, 25th July 2026: Ward 41 corporator Nivrutti Anna Bandal on Saturday alleged that an unauthorised vegetable market operating outside Ganga Kingston in Mohammadwadi is causing financial losses to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), claiming that unidentified persons are collecting money from vendors instead of the civic body receiving legitimate licence fees.

Bandal raised the issue while inspecting the neglected Gemini Housing Society amenity plot, which residents said had turned into a dumping ground due to years of civic neglect. During the visit, local residents also complained about the alleged unauthorised vegetable market, claiming that it occupies public space without civic permission and that vendors are being charged illegal fees.

“The PMC is being cheated every single day if unauthorised persons are collecting money from hawkers. Every rupee collected illegally is revenue stolen from the civic body and ultimately from Pune’s taxpayers. Such rackets cannot be allowed to flourish on public land,” Bandal said.

Demanding immediate action, Bandal called for an inquiry to identify those allegedly collecting money from vendors and sought criminal action if the allegations are substantiated.

“If anyone is running an unauthorised collection network in the name of allowing vendors to operate, it amounts to cheating the PMC and misappropriating public revenue. The civic administration and police must investigate the money trail, remove the illegal market if required, and prosecute those responsible under the law,” he said.

Residents alleged that the market has contributed to traffic congestion, poor sanitation and encroachment on public spaces, while also claiming that the civic body is losing potential licence revenue.

“The administration cannot remain a silent spectator. Illegal occupation of public space coupled with unauthorised monetary collections undermines the rule of law and encourages further encroachments. Strict legal action is essential to protect public property, ensure transparency and safeguard municipal revenue,” Bandal added.

During the inspection, residents also reiterated their demand for the immediate fencing and cleaning of the Gemini amenity plot and its development into a public garden. They said the abandoned site has become a dumping ground and poses health and safety risks to the neighbourhood.

The allegations regarding unauthorised collections and the vegetable market could not be independently verified.