Pune: The widening of Katraj-Kondhwa Road, a crucial infrastructure project for improving connectivity, continues to face delays due to incomplete land acquisition. Despite efforts at negotiated settlements, a significant portion of land is yet to be acquired, stalling progress. To speed up the process, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has submitted a proposal to the District Collector’s Office seeking compulsory land acquisition.

According to Deputy Engineer Digambar Bangar, the technical procedures on PMC's part have been completed, and the proposal was submitted two months ago. The administration is now waiting for approval to move forward with land acquisition.

The 3.5 km stretch from Rajas Society to Khadi Machine Chowk has been under widening efforts for several years. While some progress has been made, work remains stalled due to pending land acquisitions.

The PMC has prioritized negotiated settlements, but as many property owners have not yet agreed, the administration is now considering forced acquisition. In the first phase, a 50-meter-wide road is planned, requiring land acquisition from 138 property owners.

Breakdown of Required and Acquired Land (in Sq. Meters):

Total Land Required:

• Katraj: 56,462

• Kondhwa: 25,057

• Total: 81,519

Land Acquired So Far:

• FSI/TDR-based acquisition: 35,103

• Cash compensation-based acquisition: 3,713

• Pending cash compensation areas:

• Open land: 3,336

• Constructed buildings: 420

Although some land has been acquired, the remaining portions are yet to be handed over, which has stalled the construction process. PMC is now actively pursuing solutions to resolve the issue and expedite road-widening efforts. The final decision on compulsory land acquisition will depend on District Collector's approval in the coming weeks.