Pune: The expanding Red Zone in the Talawade and Chikhali areas has placed nearly 2,500 businesses under constant uncertainty, with industrialists facing challenges in obtaining land, securing loans, and receiving necessary government approvals. The lack of clarity in defining the restricted military zone’s boundary has intensified concerns among entrepreneurs, who fear action against their businesses.

Initially set at 500 meters, the Red Zone limit was later extended to 2,000 yards. However, the failure to establish a fixed boundary has led to significant hurdles for industries operating in Pimpri-Chinchwad’s industrial areas, particularly Talawade, Chikhali, and Mhetre Vasti. More than 100,000 workers are employed in companies that are now struggling to sustain operations due to infrastructure challenges.

Industries within the Red Zone face severe restrictions on expansion and construction, along with bureaucratic hurdles in obtaining necessary permits. Business owners also report difficulties in accessing loans, as nationalized banks often reject applications citing location-based risks, forcing entrepreneurs to rely on private lenders at higher interest rates.

Moreover, many essential services like roads, water supply, and power connections remain inadequate, as municipal authorities cite zoning restrictions. Despite these limitations, taxes continue to be collected, leading to growing frustration among industrialists.

Industry associations and entrepreneurs have urged the government to define a clear Red Zone boundary and reduce restrictions to prevent further harm to local businesses.

• Sandeep Belsare, President, Pimpri-Chinchwad Small Entrepreneurs Association, called for the central and state governments to intervene and ensure that businesses are protected.

• Vijay Waykar, Executive Engineer, acknowledged the challenges in providing infrastructure but assured that temporary repairs like road maintenance are being carried out.

• Rahul Lunia, Managing Director, Ganesh Enterprises, Talwade, criticized the administration for collecting taxes while denying basic amenities and demanded immediate action.

With no industrial land available in Pimpri-Chinchwad and Chakan MIDC, businesses are setting up wherever possible. However, continued Red Zone expansions and construction restrictions have created additional obstacles, leading to project delays and losses.

Demands from the Industrial Sector

• Fix the Red Zone boundary to end uncertainty

• Reduce the Red Zone area to prevent business shutdowns

• Ensure fair loan access and financial support for affected industries

• Improve infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and water supply

• Provide relocation alternatives for businesses instead of shutting them down