Pune: The Bhama-Askhed dam area in Khed Taluka, Pune district, has turned into a hub for illegal hotels, resorts, farmhouses, and restaurants, many of which have been constructed dangerously close to the dam’s water. Concerns are mounting as wastewater from these establishments is allegedly polluting the dam’s water, posing serious environmental and public health risks.
In the villages of Karanjvihire, Wakitarfe Wada, and Shive, 30 to 40 unauthorized resorts and hotels have been set up, operating as tourist and residential centers. However, inadequate waste management has led to sewage being directly discharged into the dam, contaminating the water supply.
Activists and local residents have raised demands for immediate action against these illegal businesses, which they claim are encroaching on the dam’s protected area and damaging the ecological balance.
The Bhama-Askhed dam is located just 12-15 kilometers from the Chakan industrial area. Many of these unauthorized hotels and resorts are reportedly owned by political figures, criminal elements, and influential individuals, allegedly operating with tacit support from revenue officials, police officers, and irrigation department authorities.
According to local reports:
Several resorts and hotels have been constructed illegally, without regulatory approvals, directly adjoining the dam’s water.
Untreated sewage and waste from these establishments is polluting the dam, affecting the quality of water supplied to Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), Chakan industrial estate, and nearby villages.
The upcoming Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) water project is also expected to draw water from this dam, heightening concerns over contamination.
Severe Environmental Damage and Unauthorized Construction
A wealthy businessman has allegedly reclaimed approximately 18 acres of land by dumping rocks and soil into the water, enabling resort construction.
This resort reportedly includes a swimming pool, boating services, a helipad, and multiple residential units, all built without approvals from PMC or PMRDA.
The only road leading to the resort is the same one providing access to PMC’s jackwell, raising security concerns.
Shelar has stated that he will escalate complaints to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister and has already filed reports with PMC, PMRDA, the district collector, and other relevant authorities. He has also announced plans to approach the National Green Tribunal (NGT) for legal action against illegal construction in the dam area.
Revenue Officers Caught Partying at Illegal Resort
A viral video on social media recently surfaced, showing revenue officials and staff partying and dancing inside one of the unauthorized resorts near Bhama-Askhed dam.
Criticizing the incident, activist Abhimanyu Shelar remarked, "Government officials enjoying themselves at an illegal resort while ignoring blatant environmental violations is unacceptable."
When questioned, Khed’s Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Anil Daunde admitted to attending the event but denied knowledge of the hotel’s illegal status. He stated, "The gathering was for officers and staff members, and some employees were felicitated during the event."
Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) Regional Officer Jayashankar Salunkhe assured action, stating,
"If it is confirmed that hotels and resorts are releasing wastewater into the dam, strict legal action will be taken. A site inspection will be conducted immediately."
Bhama-Askhed Dam Project Deputy Engineer Sachin Gade added, "Notices have been issued to 11 individuals who have encroached on government land in the dam area. Repeated notices have been sent, and further action will follow."