Pune: Illegal Road Digging Continues in Pimpri-Chinchwad Despite PCMC Deadline
Pimpri, 21st May 2025: Despite the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) setting a firm deadline of May 15 to complete all road excavation works, unauthorized digging continues in several parts of the city. The civic body has issued a stern warning, stating that violators will face monetary penalties and criminal prosecution.
City Engineer Makarand Nikam reiterated that all agencies had been instructed to halt excavation activities by the deadline. “Any digging after May 15—unless related to essential services such as water or electricity—will invite strict punitive action, including criminal charges,” he warned.
Multiple Agencies Involved
Excavation work has been carried out by several government and semi-government agencies, including PCMC departments (Water Supply, Drainage, Electrical), Maharashtra Natural Gas Limited (MNGL), MSEDCL, Pimpri-Chinchwad Smart City Ltd., and private companies involved in network infrastructure projects.
However, many excavation sites remain unrestored, leading to potholes and broken roads—conditions that pose serious risks, especially during the monsoon. To prevent such hazards, PCMC had mandated that all digging and restoration work be completed by May 15.
Violations Persist Across the City
Despite the ban, civic officials on May 19 detected unauthorized digging for cable laying near MIDC Chowk on Landevadi Road, Bhosari. The work was immediately halted. Similar activities have been observed on roads from Nigdi to Dapodi for the Urban Street Design project, and on internal roads in Krishnaraj Colony, Pimple Gurav, where drainage line works are still underway.
Water pipeline work by the Water Supply Department along the BRT corridor between Nigdi and Dapodi is also ongoing. In several spots, lack of proper safety barricades has increased the risk of accidents.
Final Warning from PCMC
Engineer Nikam clarified that only infrastructure work related to essential utilities—water and electricity—has been given permission to continue post-deadline. All other digging activities are strictly banned.
Unauthorized excavation will attract fines, and repeat violations may lead to criminal action. All trenches and damaged roads must be restored by May 31.
