PMC Clears Nearly 19,850 Sq Ft of Illegal Constructions in Baner, Steps Up Anti-Encroachment Drive

Pune Municipal Corporation removes nearly 19,850 sq ft of illegal constructions in Baner, intensifying its crackdown on encroachments to protect public spaces and urban planning norms.

Pune, December 20 2025: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has intensified its campaign against unauthorised constructions by demolishing nearly 19,850 square feet of illegal structures in Baner, one of Pune’s fastest-growing residential and commercial hubs. The anti-encroachment drive, carried out on December 18, reflects the civic body’s renewed focus on enforcing building regulations, reclaiming public land, and ensuring planned urban development amid rapid real estate expansion in the western parts of the city.

According to civic officials, the demolition action followed repeated violations of municipal norms by property owners who had constructed permanent and temporary structures without securing the necessary approvals. These included tin sheds, extended shop fronts, and unauthorised built-up areas that encroached upon public land and right-of-way zones. PMC officials confirmed that around 15 prior notices were issued to the concerned parties, offering them sufficient opportunity to remove the illegal constructions voluntarily. When compliance was not forthcoming, the corporation proceeded with direct enforcement.

The operation was conducted under the supervision of the PMC Building Development Department’s Zone 3 team, with logistical and security support from local police. Heavy machinery, including two JCB excavators, gas-cutting equipment, and a dedicated workforce of civic labourers, was deployed to dismantle the structures efficiently. The demolition exercise focused on areas near River Front Society at Jupiter Chowk and close to the Baner Covid Centre, locations where encroachments had become a persistent concern for residents and commuters alike.

Officials stated that illegal constructions in such areas often lead to multiple civic issues, including obstruction of footpaths, traffic congestion, strain on drainage and utility services, and increased safety risks during emergencies. Urban planners point out that Baner’s rapid transformation into a high-density mixed-use zone has made it particularly vulnerable to unregulated development, with some builders and occupants attempting to bypass zoning and building rules to maximise commercial space.

This latest action in Baner is not an isolated incident but part of a broader, citywide strategy by PMC to address unauthorised development. Over the past year, the civic body has carried out similar drives in Baner, Balewadi, and adjoining areas, clearing tens of thousands of square feet of illegal structures. Senior officials note that repeated enforcement is necessary to create a deterrent effect, as encroachments often reappear if monitoring lapses after initial demolition.

Urban policy experts have largely welcomed PMC’s crackdown, describing it as essential for maintaining the integrity of city planning. “Encroachments may seem minor at an individual level, but collectively they distort infrastructure planning, reduce pedestrian safety, and undermine the rule of law,” said an urban development analyst tracking Pune’s growth patterns. Experts, however, also stress the importance of transparency and public communication, suggesting that clearer guidelines and easier access to legal approval processes could reduce violations in the long term.

Residents in Baner have expressed mixed reactions to the demolition drive. While many have supported the action, citing improved access to public spaces and reduced congestion, others have raised concerns about livelihood disruptions for small shop owners. Civic officials responded by reiterating that enforcement follows due process and is preceded by multiple warnings, and that protecting public land remains a non-negotiable responsibility of the municipal corporation.

PMC has indicated that follow-up inspections will be conducted to ensure that demolished structures are not rebuilt illegally. In cases of repeated violations or obstruction of civic action, the corporation may initiate legal proceedings, including fines and police complaints. The civic body has also urged citizens and developers to strictly adhere to sanctioned plans and seek necessary permissions before undertaking any construction activity.

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