Pune: Over 900 Illegal Hoardings Identified, Criminal Action Begins in PMRDA Region
Pune, 22nd May 2025: The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has launched a decisive campaign against unauthorized hoardings, with Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Yogesh Mhase warning that anyone obstructing removal operations will face criminal charges. The move follows a survey revealing over 967 illegal hoardings within the PMRDA’s jurisdiction, nearly 90 of which have already been removed by the Unauthorized Construction Demolition Department.
At a review meeting held on Thursday, Dr. Mhase directed all department heads to ensure the complete removal of all unauthorized hoardings in the region. He further instructed that strict action be taken starting 26th May against hoardings that obstruct traffic or pose a threat to public safety. “Wherever unauthorized hoardings cause harm, accidents, or endanger lives, criminal cases will be filed against the property owners and advertising agencies responsible,” Dr. Mhase said, noting that two cases have already been registered in Sanaswadi and Bhukum.
With the upcoming Ashadi Ekadashi festival, when millions of devotees traverse the city’s palanquin routes, Dr. Mhase emphasized the urgent need to clear unauthorized hoardings along these paths. He also ordered the preparation of a phased action plan to remove all remaining hoardings within two months.
From a monsoon preparedness perspective, Dr. Mhase prioritized the cleaning of river and drain channels within the PMRDA area, aiming to prevent flooding risks to citizens. “The flow paths of rivers and drains must be cleared of all encroachments to ensure residents’ safety during the rains,” he added.
Dr. Mhase reiterated, “Any loss or accident due to unauthorized hoardings will be treated as a criminal offense, with strict legal action against those responsible.” Two criminal cases have already been registered in Sanaswadi and Bhukum as part of this drive.
