Pune: The third phase of Pune’s ‘Encroachment-Free Highways’ initiative has been launched, targeting illegal structures along key highways. The latest operation focuses on removing encroachments from Navale Bridge to Sarola on Satara Road and from Hinjewadi to Maan. So far, over 4,250 illegal structures have been demolished in the first two phases, significantly improving traffic flow on national and state highways.
30-Day Deadline for Highway Clearance
The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has set a 30-day target to completely clear unauthorized structures along highways. This includes:
Shops and commercial units
Metal sheds and kiosks
Temporary and permanent illegal structures
The action is being carried out in collaboration with:
Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporations
Pune Rural Police
National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)
Public Works Department (PWD)
Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC)
Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC)
Maharashtra State Electricity Board (MSEB)
750 Encroachments Cleared in 10 Days
In the past 10 days alone, authorities have removed over 750 illegal structures, including:
Shops
Tin sheds and temporary kiosks
Unauthorised buildings along state highways
Many property owners have voluntarily cleared their encroachments before facing forced demolition, according to PMRDA officials.
Upcoming Demolition Drives
The next phase of the operation is set to begin on March 28 (Friday) at Shikrapur to Shirur on Pune-Nagar Road and Bakaji Corner to the Crematorium on NDA Road, Bavdhan Budruk.
PMRDA Commissioner Dr. Yogesh Mhase has urged encroachers to voluntarily remove illegal structures to avoid forced action.