Pune: The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), in collaboration with the police department, conducted a large-scale demolition drive in Chikhali and Kudalwadi on Saturday (February 8).
The operation was initiated after the six-day deadline for business owners to voluntarily remove unauthorized constructions and tin sheds expired. On the first day of action, the municipal anti-encroachment squad demolished 222 illegal structures spread across 42 acres, covering an area of over 1.8 million square feet.
The drive was carried out under the leadership of Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh and Police Commissioner Vinoy Kumar Choubey, who personally visited the site, monitored the operation, and provided necessary directives to the administration.
The large-scale demolition required the coordinated efforts of four executive engineers, 16 deputy engineers, and a significant workforce of laborers. To facilitate the operation, the administration deployed 16 poclain excavators, eight JCBs, one crane, and four cutters. Additionally, three fire engines and two ambulances were stationed at the site as precautionary measures, ensuring swift response in case of emergencies.
Senior officials present during the demolition included Additional Commissioner Pradeep Jambhale, City Engineer Makarand Nikam, Chief Engineer Pramod Ombhase, Deputy Commissioner Manoj Lonkar, and Regional Officers Rajesh Agale, Suchita Pansare, Amit Pandit, Kishor Nanaware, Umesh Dhakane, Ajinkya Yele, Sheetal Wakde, and Shrikant Kolpe.
To prevent any disruptions, a tight security arrangement was put in place under the supervision of Additional Police Commissioner Vasant Paradeshi. Deputy Commissioners of Police Swapna Gore, Dr. Shivaji Pawar, Bapu Bangar, Sandeep Doiphode, and Vivek Patil led their teams to maintain law and order in the area.
The demolition began at 6 AM and continued throughout the day, with hundreds of laborers and municipal officers ensuring the removal of unauthorized warehouses and structures.
Business Owners Allege Mobile Network Shutdown
As the operation progressed, local business owners raised concerns about a mobile network shutdown in the area. They alleged that the administration deliberately restricted mobile connectivity to prevent communication during the demolition. However, officials have not provided any statement on these claims.
