Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has cleared over 19,700 square feet of unauthorised constructions in Undri. The large-scale anti-encroachment drive was conducted across major stretches, including Undri Chowk to Kadnagar, as well as the adjoining neighbourhoods of Sainagar and Kapilnagar. Officials confirmed that structures demolished during the operation included roadside sheds, illegal counters, unauthorised extensions, handcarts, and encroachments on margins meant for pedestrians and commuters.
The drive was carried out jointly by the Encroachment and Building Development Departments of PMC, supported by regional staff across multiple wards. The action underscores the civic body’s renewed focus on urban order and environmental sustainability. According to senior officials, such encroachments not only obstruct the smooth flow of traffic but also restrict pedestrian movement, create bottlenecks for emergency services, and lead to haphazard urban growth. With Pune already grappling with congestion in rapidly expanding suburbs like Undri, authorities emphasised that strict enforcement is necessary to restore balance in land use.
Encroachment, experts note, remains one of the most persistent challenges for Indian cities witnessing swift urbanisation. Informal structures, often set up for commercial purposes, disrupt planned layouts and reduce the liveability of neighbourhoods. While these may provide short-term livelihood options, their unchecked growth weakens the long-term sustainability of the city. The removal of illegal structures, therefore, becomes an essential step in ensuring equitable access to roads, footpaths, and civic amenities. Local planners highlight that clearing unauthorised constructions also supports Pune’s vision of creating eco-friendly and sustainable neighbourhoods. Freeing footpaths allows for better pedestrian infrastructure, enabling residents to walk or cycle safely. Such efforts contribute directly to reducing carbon emissions from vehicular traffic, as walkability becomes a practical alternative.
While the operation has been welcomed by many residents for improving accessibility, civic officials stressed that sustained monitoring is crucial. Past experiences show that encroachments tend to return unless consistent enforcement and awareness campaigns are carried out simultaneously. Officials indicated that future drives will combine strict action with community engagement to encourage voluntary compliance. For a city striving to build equitable and climate-resilient urban systems, reclaiming public land is more than just an enforcement measure—it is a foundation for future growth. The latest operation in Undri serves as both a warning against unauthorised development and a reassurance that urban spaces belong to the wider community, not just a few.
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