Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated an investigation into the illegal construction of 30 stalls near Parihar Chowk, Aundh. This move follows complaints and a protest staged by local residents, who raised concerns about the encroachment and the resulting inconvenience to pedestrians.
The PMC had allocated the sidewalk near Parihar Chowk to Shivdatt Mitra Mandal in 2002 for the purpose of setting up a vegetable market. However, the agreement expired in 2013, yet 30 stalls were constructed illegally at the site after the contract ended. These stalls occupied the sidewalk, forcing pedestrians to walk on the road in a heavily trafficked area.
Despite repeated complaints to the PMC, no immediate action was taken, prompting former corporator Archana Musale and her husband Madhukar Musale to protest outside the municipal corporation office. Their protest drew attention to the issue, and Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale ordered an investigation.
An initial inquiry revealed that the stalls were unauthorized. As a result, the PMC demolished the illegal structures three days ago, clearing the footpath for public use. Additionally, the Commissioner has ordered a detailed investigation into how the illegal stalls were set up, despite the contract having expired.
A five-member committee, headed by Additional Commissioner Prithviraj B.P., has been formed to conduct a comprehensive inquiry. The committee is tasked with examining all encroachment permits issued to the stallholders at Shivdatt Mini Market, reviewing all relevant documents, and conducting on-site inspections. The committee is expected to submit a detailed report promptly.
