Pune: Over 300 Illegal Resorts, Hotels Demolished In Khadakwasla–Panshet Belt
Pune, 24th November 2025: In a major crackdown to safeguard the city’s drinking and irrigation water sources, the Water Resources Department has demolished over 300 illegal structures built around the catchment areas of the Khadakwasla, Panshet, Pavana and Kasarsai dams. District Collector Jitendra Dudi confirmed that the intensive demolition drive has been underway for the past week.
Khadakwasla, Varasgaon, Panshet, Pavana and Kasarsai reservoirs are key suppliers of drinking and irrigation water to Pune. Over the years, private entities had encroached upon government-owned land near these dams, constructing resorts, hotels and other commercial establishments that posed a potential risk of water contamination.
Frequent public complaints and repeated discussions in the state legislature prompted Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil to order firm action. The Pune Municipal Corporation deployed heavy machinery for the operation, while police personnel ensured security during the demolition.
Officials said encroachers attempted to obstruct the drive through pressure tactics, threats and legal hurdles, but the administration continued the action without interruption.
