Pimpri: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has launched one of its most substantial anti-encroachment drives to date, focusing on the Chikhali-Kudalwadi area. This operation, which spanned from February 8 to 10, 2025, aimed at clearing unauthorized structures to reclaim land for planned urban development.
During the three-day initiative, the PCMC successfully demolished 1,511 illegal structures, reclaiming approximately 120.72 lakh square feet of space, equivalent to 276 acres of land. On the final day alone, 682 unauthorized structures were dismantled, covering around 33.58 lakh square feet of area. This significant operation not only targeted illegal sheds, factories, warehouses, and scrap shops but also aimed to eliminate encroachments on land reserved for public amenities.
Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh and Police Commissioner Vinaykumar Chaube supervised the extensive operation, conducting it with careful planning and coordination across multiple departments. The Building Permission and Unauthorized Construction Control Department collaborated with rapid response teams to facilitate the demolition process.
The operation was backed by high-level oversight from senior municipal officials such as Additional Municipal Commissioner Pradeep Jambhale Patil and Deputy Commissioner Manoj Lonkar. To maintain security and order during the crackdown, approximately 600 police officers, alongside 180 personnel from the Maharashtra Security Force, were deployed to assist PCMC teams.
Heavy machinery played a key role during the operation's execution, with 16 excavators, 8 JCBs, and other equipment used to facilitate swift demolitions. Standby emergency measures, including firefighting vehicles and ambulances, were also stationed on-site to manage any potential accidents or emergencies.
The anti-encroachment drive is part of the PCMC’s broader initiative to address illegal constructions impacting city planning and environmental safety. With growing concerns about land misuse, pollution, and the safety hazards posed by unauthorized encroachments, the PCMC aims to safeguard land for future development and to protect public health.
“We are committed to clearing unauthorized structures to preserve our city’s development plans. This operation is just the beginning,” Singh stated, highlighting the PCMC's resolve to extend these efforts throughout the city.
Interestingly, during this operation, the PCMC’s Fire Brigade made headlines for their humane actions amid the confronting demolitions. Fire Officer Gautam Ingawale reported on the team's efforts to rescue around 50 pet cats left behind by their owners. The cats were discovered caged within buildings scheduled for demolition; their owners, reportedly, were absent due to health issues.
“A fire vehicle is kept on standby during the demolition process to prevent potential disasters,” Ingawale said, showcasing the brigade’s commitment to safety, not just for humans but for animals as well.
The overall operation serves as both a deterrent against future encroachments and as a reaffirmation of the PCMC’s intent to uphold urban planning protocols. The extensive media coverage and community engagement following the drive lend weight to its significance, pushing for continued vigilance against illegal structures.
The operation's timeline was gradual, noting the areas cleared each day. On February 8, 42 acres were reclaimed; this expanded to 157 acres on February 9 and culminating with 77 acres on February 10. Collectively, the operation reflects PCMC's aggressive stance toward addressing unauthorized constructions and encapsulates its approach to urban management.
Concluding this substantial initiative, the PCMC and its partners have set the stage for future development and urban enrichment, emphasizing community safety and adherence to municipal regulations. The substantial progress made over these three days exemplifies the city’s commitment to enforcing lawful land use for the benefit of its residents.