Pune: Citizens of Ambegaon have raised serious concerns over alterations made to the city’s approved Development Plan (DP). The original plan proposed a 12-meter-wide, 400-meter-long straight road connecting Ambegaon-Dattanagar Road to the Katraj-Dehu Road Bypass. However, the revised alignment introduces sharp curves and steep slopes, sparking safety concerns and accusations of favoritism toward private builders.

Allegations of Manipulation

The original DP road, crucial for connecting key areas, has allegedly been diverted to accommodate 27 gunthas of private land owned by a builder. Residents claim that the new alignment passes through Ramnagari Society, falsely presenting a private road as part of the DP.

Former corporator Yuvraj Beldare stated, “The revised plan is misleading and appears to serve the interests of private developers. If the original 12-meter road is not restored, we will escalate the matter to Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and initiate strong protests.”

Residents’ Concerns

Ramnagari Society members, including Secretary Bharat Aladar, expressed their discontent, stating that the society’s private 9-meter road has no connection to the original 12-meter DP road. They warned of organized protests if the administration proceeds with the revised alignment.

PMC Road Department Head Aniruddha Pawaskar said, “The road will be developed as per the layout approved by the Construction Department. We will proceed with tenders and the necessary approvals.”

Superintendent Engineer Shridhar Yevalekar added, “I am unaware of any discrepancies in this matter. A detailed review will be conducted before making a decision.”

Residents questioned why the administration included a private road in the DP and why the 90-meter section adjacent to the Katraj Bypass remains incomplete due to unwilling landowners. Despite these challenges, funds have been allocated for the road, and tenders have been issued for a portion of the stretch passing through Ramnagari Society.