Pune: PMRDA to Launch Crackdown on 967 Illegal Hoardings; Offenders To Face Legal Action
Pune: PMRDA to Launch Crackdown on 967 Illegal Hoardings; Offenders To Face Legal Action
Pune, May 22, 2025: A recent survey by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has revealed over 950 unauthorized hoardings in its jurisdiction. Action against these illegal installations is underway, and Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Yogesh Mhase has stated that criminal cases will be filed against anyone who attempts to obstruct the drive.
On Thursday, Dr. Mhase held a review meeting with departmental heads and directed the immediate removal of all unauthorized hoardings within PMRDA limits.
The PMRDA survey identified 967 illegal hoardings, of which nearly 90 have already been taken down by the department of unauthorized construction and demolition. Dr. Mhase has instructed intensified action starting Monday (May 26) against hoardings that obstruct traffic or pose a risk to public safety.
With Ashadhi Ekadashi approaching, which sees lakhs of devotees walking along the palkhi route, the Commissioner has emphasized the urgent removal of hoardings along this route. He also instructed that a structured plan be drawn up for removing the remaining hoardings within two months.
In view of the monsoon season, Dr. Mhase directed that clearing of nullahs and streams in the PMRDA area be prioritized to ensure there is no flood risk to residents. Debris obstructing water flow must be cleared.
The meeting was attended by Additional Metropolitan Commissioner Deepak Singla, Vigilance Officer and Superintendent of Police Amol Tambe, Director of Development Permission and Planning Sunil Marale, Chief Fire Officer Devendra Potphode, Deputy Commissioner for Unauthorized Construction Dr. Deepti Suryawanshi-Patil, Senior Urban Planner Shweta Patil, Deputy Collector Pramod Kudale, Ravindra Ranjane, and officials from agencies involved in hoarding removal.
Criminal Charges for Damage or Casualties
If any unauthorized hoarding results in human casualties or other accidents, the property owner and advertising agency will be held accountable and criminal cases will be registered against them. So far, two such cases have already been registered at Sanaswadi and Bhukum.
