Pune: Action Against Illegal Food Stalls In Swargate Following Shocking Incident Of Shivshahi Bus Rape Case
Swargate, 28th February 2025: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) finally took action against illegal food stalls and handcarts in Swargate’s Jedhe Chowk and the bus terminal area following a recent shocking incident that sparked outrage across the state. Officials seized gas cylinders and other unauthorized materials during the operation.
The incident at Swargate bus station has exposed serious lapses in security, infrastructure, and police vigilance. The area has long been plagued by encroachments, with food vendors occupying pedestrian walkways, forcing people onto the busy Solapur Road. This creates hazardous conditions, particularly at intersections where pedestrians struggle to cross amid heavy traffic, including Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) and ST buses.
Adding to the chaos, the area under the flyover and surrounding streets have become hotspots for public drinking and drug abuse. Many individuals consume alcohol in parked vehicles or on the roadside before heading to food stalls for snacks, leading to frequent disturbances. The same issue is prevalent inside the bus station itself.
The PMC’s Bibwewadi Ward Office conducted the crackdown, targeting vendors exceeding their allotted space, setting up sheds, and placing unauthorized counters, tables, and chairs. Gas cylinders used for cooking on the roadside, which is prohibited, were also confiscated.
Assistant Commissioner Pradeep Awhad confirmed the operation, stating, “Previous penalty actions had little impact. Today’s raid revealed severe unhygienic conditions. Excess furniture and cylinders have been seized.”
The presence of unauthorized vendors right at the bus station entrance, along with parked autorickshaws, has also worsened traffic congestion. With limited space for buses to maneuver, many end up queueing on the main road, causing frequent jams.
