Pune: PMRDA Cracks Down on Illegal Constructions, Clears Over Two Lakh Square Meters Along Highways
Pune, 13th March 2025: The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has intensified its crackdown on unauthorized constructions and encroachments along national and state highways in and around the city. In the past nine days, nearly 2,000 illegal structures have been demolished, clearing more than two lakh square meters of encroached land.
With the rising number of unauthorized constructions choking traffic flow, PMRDA, in collaboration with the National Highways Authority, Public Works Department, Pune Municipal Corporation, and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, launched a joint operation to free highways from congestion.
“Encroachments on busy roads have been a persistent issue, leading to traffic bottlenecks and inconvenience to commuters. We have taken decisive action, removing 1,992 illegal structures across key highways in just nine days,” said Dr. Yogesh Mhase, Metropolitan Commissioner, PMRDA.
The ongoing operation has primarily focused on three major highways:
Pune-Nashik Road:
- Distance covered: 26 km
- Encroachments removed: 702
- Area cleared: 70,200 sq. meters
Pune-Solapur Road:
- Distance covered: 25 km
- Encroachments removed: 772
- Area cleared: 77,200 sq. meters
Chandni Chowk to Paud Road:
- Distance covered: 16 km
- Encroachments removed: 518
- Area cleared: 51,800 sq. meters
Encroachers Removing Structures Voluntarily
According to officials, some encroachers have voluntarily removed illegal structures during the operation, recognizing the inevitability of enforcement. The crackdown aims to not only restore road space but also improve traffic conditions across Pune and its surrounding areas.
“The encroachments have been a major reason for congestion, and we are committed to making the highways encroachment-free. The drive will continue in the coming days to ensure better road conditions,” Dr. Mhase assured.
Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate and warned that strict action will be taken against further illegal construction along major highways.
