Pune: A builder has landed in legal trouble for allegedly demolishing a boundary wall that was erected to protect the Mutha Right Canal in Gultekdi, Pune, and constructing an unauthorized road in its place.

The incident has raised concerns over the rampant encroachment on public land by private developers. Following a complaint from the Irrigation Department, the Swargate police have registered a case against Amit Anil Lalwani of Beams and Shine Realties Pvt. Ltd., along with other individuals involved.

The boundary wall, constructed by the Irrigation Department, was intended to safeguard the canal from encroachments and unauthorized activities.

However, it was reported that Lalwani’s company, which has an ongoing project nearby, demolished the wall, valued at ₹2.78 lakh, to facilitate the transportation of construction materials. This demolition was carried out without the necessary permissions, leading to significant financial loss and violation of government regulations.

Rohan Vasudev Dhamale, a junior engineer from the Irrigation Department, filed the complaint. According to the complaint, the builder unlawfully accessed the protected area, demolished the wall, and constructed a cement concrete road on government land.

This action represents not only a breach of public trust but also a disregard for legal norms designed to protect public infrastructure. The Swargate police have initiated further investigations to determine the extent of the violations and to hold those responsible accountable.

The incident highlights the ongoing issue of illegal encroachments on public infrastructure by private entities in Pune. It underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of regulations and vigilant monitoring of construction activities near protected areas.