2,000 Illegal Hoardings in Pune: Monsoon Danger Looms as Only 800 Seek Regularization"
Pune faces a looming monsoon threat as over 2,000 illegal hoardings remain unregularized. Despite 800 applications for regularization, only a fraction of hoardings have been addressed. Authorities warn that unauthorized structures pose significant risks during the upcoming rainy season. The PMRDA urges swift action to prevent potential accidents.
Mrudula Narale
Pune, April 17, 2025 – Pune’s skyline is cluttered with an alarming 12,000 unauthorized hoardings, but with just 800 applications filed for regularization, authorities are scrambling to address safety risks before unseasonal winds and rains strike.
Collapse Fears as Monsoon Approaches
In a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Dipti Suryawanshi, officials and hoarding owners discussed the urgent need to remove dangerous and illegal structures that could collapse in strong winds. The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) warned that hoardings without proper documentation will be taken down immediately, with owners held legally liable for any accidents.
Why Are So Many Hoardings Still Illegal?
Despite repeated warnings, most hoarding owners have avoided regularization, primarily due to high fees—ranging from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2 lakh per structure. Over 800 pending applications from 2023-2025 remain stuck, as many advertisers resist paying fines.
Adding to the chaos, hoarding association members accused junior officials of delaying approvals by blocking access to senior officers. However, they pledged cooperation to resolve the backlog.
Strict New Rules for Hoardings
No multiple hoardings on single structures
Wind-blocking metal panels must be removed or modified
Any new unauthorized hoardings will face instant demolition
NGO Steps In to Help
In a surprising move, Dnyanmata Seva Bhavi Sanstha, an NGO, has offered to remove illegal hoardings for free across PMRDA’s jurisdiction—covering Pune, Maval, Mulshi, Haveli, and other areas. Activist Sardar Ravindra Singh confirmed the proposal has been sent to PMRDA Commissioner Yogesh Mhase.
Will Pune Act Before Disaster Strikes?
With monsoon winds threatening to turn these illegal structures into deadly hazards, the clock is ticking. Will authorities and hoarding owners act fast—or will it take a tragedy to force change?
Read : https://newsdotz.com/pimpri-chinchwad-set-to-pioneer-maharashtras-electric-transit-revolution/
Follow : https://www.instagram.com/newsdotz?igsh=MXRleTNiZnV5eThuYg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
