Pune: The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is gearing up to launch an extensive demolition campaign against unauthorized constructions located along the flood-prone riverbanks within the city’s blue flood control line.
This action is set to commence immediately after the monsoon season, with preparations already in full swing. To facilitate the operation, the PCMC has issued tenders worth over ₹3.3 crore for the necessary demolition machinery and equipment.
The directive for these demolitions stems from multiple legal and administrative actions. The Mumbai High Court has mandated the removal of unauthorized structures within municipal limits, which had been temporarily halted due to the ongoing monsoon.
Recently, many illegal constructions have been erected within the blue flood control line of the Indrayani River, prompting environmental concerns. Following a petition, the Pune Bench of the National Green Tribunal ordered the PCMC to demolish these constructions within six months.
Additionally, during a visit to flood-affected citizens in Sangvi due to the Pavana River's overflow, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde personally instructed the municipal administration to take swift action against unauthorized constructions along the riverbanks.
A joint meeting between the PCMC and the police administration was held on August 23 to plan and coordinate the forthcoming demolition operations. Regional surveys of these constructions will be completed within the next eight days.
During the demolition process, adequate security will be provided by the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate, ensuring that the operation proceeds smoothly and without incident. Police Commissioner Vinaykumar Choubey confirmed this commitment.
The total tender issued for this campaign amounts to ₹3 crore, 30 lakh, 42 thousand, and 88, reflecting the large-scale nature of the operation.
PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh, during a recent media briefing, reiterated the administration’s determination to proceed with demolitions post-monsoon.
He highlighted that priority will be given to demolishing illegal commercial, business, and residential structures within the flood control zone. These efforts are in line with the instructions issued by Chief Minister Shinde during his visit to the flood-affected areas of Sangvi.