Pune: PMC Removes Illegal Fish Market Near Lavanya Hotel in Mohammadwadi; Residents Demand Permanent Action and Probe into ‘Hafta’ Allegations
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Mohammadwadi, 31st July 2026 : In a major anti-encroachment drive, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) on Friday removed illegal fish stalls operating on public land near Lavanya Hotel in Mohammadwadi. The action was carried out by the PMC’s Anti-Encroachment Department following repeated complaints from residents over traffic congestion, unhygienic conditions, and obstruction of public roads and footpaths.
For several months, residents alleged that the unauthorised fish market had expanded significantly, with vendors occupying large portions of the roadside. They claimed that the encroachments disrupted the smooth movement of vehicles, forced pedestrians to walk on busy roads, and created serious sanitation concerns due to the disposal of fish waste in the open.
Local residents said the area had become increasingly difficult to navigate, especially during peak hours. The smell of fish waste, overflowing garbage, and wastewater from the stalls often made the surroundings unhygienic and unpleasant for nearby residents and commuters. They also alleged that emergency vehicles frequently faced delays because of the congestion created by the encroachments.
Residents further alleged that despite several complaints to the civic authorities, the illegal market continued to operate without interruption. They have now demanded a high-level investigation into allegations that nearly ₹2 lakh was being collected every month as “hafta” from illegal hawkers. They urged the authorities to identify those responsible and take strict legal action if the allegations are found to be true.
“We are not against people earning their livelihood, but public roads cannot be occupied illegally. Every day, commuters, schoolchildren, senior citizens and local residents were forced to face traffic jams and unsafe conditions because of the encroachments. Fish waste was often dumped in the open, creating foul odour and attracting stray animals. Despite repeated complaints, the situation remained unchanged for a long time. We appreciate the PMC for finally taking action, but unless there is regular monitoring, these illegal stalls may return within a few days,” residents said.
Ward 41 Corporator Nivrutti Anna Bandal welcomed the civic action and emphasised that illegal occupation of public spaces would not be tolerated.
“Public roads and footpaths cannot be allowed to be occupied illegally. Illegal encroachments create inconvenience for residents, pedestrians and motorists. The PMC must ensure that strict action is taken and that such encroachments do not return after the demolition drive,” Bandal said.
Residents have urged the PMC to conduct regular inspections in the area and maintain continuous vigilance to prevent fresh encroachments. They also called for strict enforcement against illegal hawkers occupying public spaces and demanded long-term measures to ensure that roads and footpaths remain free for public use.
The anti-encroachment drive is part of the PMC’s ongoing efforts to remove unauthorised structures across the city and improve traffic movement, public safety, and civic infrastructure.
