Pune: The Pune Agricultural Market Committee has appointed the Maharashtra Security Force (MSF) to oversee security at Gultekdi Market Yard, following a surge in thefts, shop burglaries, and vandalism incidents. This move aims to strengthen security and maintain order within the market premises. Individuals found engaging in theft or disputes may now face police action under charges of obstructing government work.

The market yard has witnessed an increase in thefts since the new board of directors took charge. Traders and commission agents have frequently reported incidents of farm produce theft, shop break-ins, AC pipe thefts, and damage to CCTV cameras and other infrastructure.

Previously, the market committee had hired two private security agencies to guard the fruits and vegetable market as well as the jaggery and grain market. However, these measures failed to curb criminal activities, resulting in significant financial losses for traders and farmers.

In an attempt to improve security, the committee initially replaced the existing contractors. However, the new agency rehired the same security personnel, leading to no real improvement. Due to persistent lapses, the committee terminated the contract and entrusted security responsibilities to the Maharashtra Security Force.

Dilip Kalbhor, Chairman, Pune Agricultural Market Committee: "The decision to appoint a government security agency was unanimously approved by the board. This step will help bring discipline and ensure safety in the market."

Dr. Rajaram Dhondkar, Secretary, Pune Agricultural Market Committee: "A three-year contract has been signed with the Maharashtra Security Force, with a security deposit equivalent to three months’ salary. Due to increasing thefts, traders, commission agents, and stakeholders had been raising concerns. To address these issues, we have now implemented a more robust and reliable security system with a government agency."

Key Takeaways:

• Maharashtra Security Force will now manage security at Gultekdi Market Yard

• Incidents of theft and vandalism prompted the decision to replace private security firms

• Violators may face police action for disrupting public security

• New security contract spans three years, with a deposit placed for accountability