Pune: In a blatant disregard for public safety, a massive iron structure weighing over one ton has been illegally reinstalled using nuts and bolts at the same location where the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) had previously demolished hoardings in Tilak Chowk’s Sambhaji Police Station area.
This revelation comes despite multiple hoarding-related accidents in Maharashtra that have resulted in casualties. However, PMC officials have failed to take decisive action, allowing the situation to persist.
Previously, three massive hoardings were installed illegally in the riverbed behind Sambhaji Police Station by exploiting loopholes in permissions granted by the Kasba Vishrambag Ward Office of the PMC. Following public outrage and a legal battle, the Bombay High Court ordered PMC to remove these hoardings in February 2024.
Investigations revealed irregularities such as unauthorized tree cutting, illegal wall demolitions, and misrepresentation of government-owned land as private property.
Three municipal staff members were suspended for their involvement in granting improper permissions.
Hoarding Contractor’s Intimidation and Police Inaction
When PMC staff attempted to prevent further hoarding installations, the contractor allegedly threatened and forcibly removed them from the site. A formal complaint was lodged at Deccan Police Station against the contractor for obstructing government work.
However, the police have yet to register a case, leaving PMC officials frustrated over the lack of action.
Violation of Expired Permits
The newly erected hoarding has no valid approvals, as:
The previous hoarding’s permission had expired.
Traffic NOC, property owner’s consent, and tree conservation clearance have all lapsed.
The reinstallation violates PMC and court directives.
PMC Additional Commissioner Prithviraj B.P. stated: "We have filed a complaint against the hoarding contractor. Police action is awaited. Meanwhile, PMC is reviewing the documents, and necessary action will be taken."
