By Zoheb Shaikh
Pune, April 3, 2025 – The cancellation of PMRDA’s Development Plan (DP) has sparked debates about its consequences for infrastructure, urban growth, and land use. In an exclusive conversation with NewsDotz, Additional Metropolitan Commissioner Deepak Singla provided clarity on the issue and explained the next course of action.
Why Was the DP Scrapped?
According to Singla, gaps in the DP’s formulation led to its cancellation. The revised version, currently under development, aims to address these shortcomings while incorporating public feedback.
On the issue of illegal constructions, he firmly stated, “The regional plan remains in force, and until a new DP is sanctioned, building permissions will follow it. Unauthorized developments will not be tolerated.”
Effects of the DP Cancellation
The decision has widespread implications:
- Infrastructure Delays: Projects such as roads, hospitals, and public spaces may face indefinite delays due to the nullification of prior land reservations.
- Restarting the DP Process: With the earlier plan scrapped, authorities must now reinitiate the lengthy approval process, further delaying urban expansion.
- Uncertain Future for Merged Areas: The villages incorporated into PMC in 2020 were anticipating infrastructural upgrades through the DP. With its cancellation, these areas must wait longer for essential services.
- Key Projects Affected: Urban initiatives like the Pune Ring Road and TP schemes face potential delays due to the absence of an approved development framework.
Experts and Activists Weigh In
Many urban development experts emphasize the importance of a structured DP for planning public spaces and critical infrastructure. A civic activist, while speaking to NewsDotz, said:
“A well-planned DP streamlines land acquisition for public amenities, reducing project delays. Without one, urban planning becomes a fragmented and inefficient process.”
Looking Ahead: PMRDA’s Approach
Despite concerns, Addl. Commissioner Singla assured that a revised development plan is underway. PMRDA is focusing on sustainable urbanization, better zoning policies, and long-term infrastructure solutions to overcome the challenges posed by the cancellation.