PCMC’s Massive Anti-Encroachment Drive Reclaims 276 Acres in Chikhali-Kudalwadi
Chikhali, 10th February 2025: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has successfully reclaimed 276 acres of land in a three-day anti-encroachment operation in the Chikhali-Kudalwadi area. The drive, which concluded on 10th February, resulted in the demolition of 1,511 unauthorized structures, clearing a total built-up area of 120.72 lakh square feet.
On the final day of the operation, authorities demolished 682 illegal structures, covering approximately 33.58 lakh square feet. The targeted structures included unauthorized sheds, factories, warehouses, scrap shops, and illegal buildings constructed on land reserved for future city development and public amenities.
PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh and Pimpri Chinchwad Commissioner of Police Vinoy Kumar Choubey jointly supervised the operation. The PCMC’s Building Permission and Unauthorized Construction Control Department, along with ward rapid response teams, coordinated the action. Senior PCMC officials, including Additional Municipal Commissioner Pradeep Jambhale Patil and Deputy Commissioner Manoj Lonkar, were present during the drive.
To ensure smooth execution, a significant security force was deployed, comprising around 600 police officers and 180 personnel from the Maharashtra Security Force. The operation utilized heavy machinery, including 16 excavators, 8 JCBs, 1 crane, and 4 cutters. Firefighting vehicles and ambulances were also stationed on-site as a precautionary measure.
The three-day operation saw a progressive increase in the area cleared. On 8th February, 42 acres were reclaimed, followed by 157 acres on 9th February , and 77 acres on the final day. This large-scale initiative demonstrates PCMC’s commitment to addressing illegal encroachments and preserving land for planned urban development.
