Pune: A protest erupted in Chikhali and Kudalwadi as business owners, including scrap shop operators, warehouse owners, hotels, bakeries, workshops, and other commercial establishments, blocked Dehu-Alandi Road in opposition to the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation’s (PCMC) demolition drive. The police have arrived at the scene and are engaged in talks with protestors to clear the road.
The Chikhali-Kudalwadi area has a large concentration of illegal commercial establishments, including scrap yards, warehouses, and other businesses.
These have been frequently reported for fire incidents, leading to air and noise pollution complaints. Nearby residents have raised concerns over safety risks due to the unregulated presence of these businesses.
Additionally, complaints were filed with the municipal corporation regarding:
Chemical waste being dumped into local drains, polluting the Indrayani River.
Plastic, paper, and hazardous waste being burnt, releasing toxic gases into the atmosphere.
To address these concerns, the municipal corporation had issued notices to 5,000 unauthorized businesses, ordering them to dismantle illegal tin sheds and constructions within 15 days. Failing compliance, the corporation warned that it would demolish unauthorized structures through its Building Permission and Unauthorized Construction Control Department.
The business owners challenged the notice in Mumbai High Court, which has scheduled a hearing on February 14. The municipal corporation has already filed its response to the court.
With the 15-day deadline ending, the municipal authorities initiated their demolition plan and requested police assistance for security. Public announcements about the demolition were made on Wednesday, and action was scheduled for Thursday.
However, upon learning about the impending demolition drive, business owners staged a roadblock on Dehu-Alandi Road in protest. Police forces have reached the site and are engaged in negotiations with the protestors to clear the road.
The situation remains tense as the municipal corporation continues its crackdown on illegal constructions. Further developments are expected following the High Court hearing on February 14.