Pune: PMRDA, PMC, and NHAI Clear 201 Encroachments from Highways
Pune, 3rd March 2025: Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has launched a drive to remove encroachments from major highways and city roads to address traffic congestion. In collaboration with other government agencies, PMRDA has cleared 201 encroachments across three major routes, reclaiming around 20,100 square feet of road space. The operation, which began today, will continue for a month.
Determined to make roads encroachment-free within 30 days, PMRDA has initiated joint action against unauthorized constructions, shops, and temporary structures along national and state highways. On the first day of the drive, encroachments from over 20,000 square feet of land were cleared across three major routes: Pune-Nashik Highway from Indrayani River to Barge Wasti (78 encroachments), Pune-Solapur Highwat (70 encroachments), and Chandni Chowk-Paud Road (53 encroachments).
Multiple agencies, including PMRDA, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Pune Police, Pimpri Chinchwad Police, Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), and the Public Works Department (PWD), have coordinated efforts under a set timetable. The clearance drive is being led by PMRDA Commissioner Dr. Yogesh Mhase, Additional Police Commissioner Manoj Patil, and other senior officials.
Encroachments along additional roads, including Hadapsar to Yavat, Uruli Kanchan to Shindwane, Rajgurunagar on Nashik Road, and Chandni Chowk to Paud, will be cleared between 3rd March and 10th March. From 10th March to 20th March, authorities will target encroachments on routes like Navale Bridge to Sarole on Pune-Satara Road, Sus Road, Hadapsar to Dive Ghat, and various sections near Chakan, Hinjawadi, and Talegaon.
Authorities have urged encroachers to remove illegal structures voluntarily. NHAI has specifically warned that encroachments along service roads on Pune-Satara, Pune-Solapur, and Pune-Nashik highways must be cleared immediately. The agency stated that any inconvenience caused during the removal process will not be their responsibility, and costs for clearance will be recovered from the encroachers.
