Pune to Clear Illegal Highway Encroachments in 30-Day Drive
Pune to Clear Illegal Highway Encroachments in 30-Day Drive
The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has announced a 30-day crackdown on illegal structures along major highways to ease traffic congestion. The decision was made during a high-level meeting attended by officials from the police, highways authority, municipal corporations, and transport department.
Authorities identified illegal shops, stalls, and temporary structures as key causes of traffic bottlenecks. The enforcement will begin on March 3, giving property owners a chance to remove unauthorized structures voluntarily.
The drive will take place in two phases across nine critical corridors. The first phase (March 3-10) will focus on Pune-Solapur Road, Pune-Nashik Road, and Chandni Chowk to Paud. The second phase (March 10-20) will target Pune-Satara Road and the congested Hinjewadi area, among others.
Citizens have long complained about encroachments narrowing highways and causing accidents. A recent viral video showed a speeding car crashing into a roadside stall, narrowly missing people. Officials confirmed that proper measurements of the roads were taken before planning the drive.
PMRDA has assured that similar anti-encroachment operations will be conducted twice a year to prevent the return of illegal structures within Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad limits.
Local activists welcomed the move but stressed the need for regular enforcement to ensure encroachments do not reappear. Officials have warned that strict action will be taken against those failing to comply.
With this initiative, authorities aim to restore smooth traffic flow and enhance road safety across the Pune region.
