PMC to Relocate 918 Families for Phule Memorials in Pune

Pune: In one of its most significant rehabilitation efforts, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) will relocate 918 families to secure 5,320 sqm of land (nearly 1.5 acres) in the densely populated Mahatma Phule Peth (Ganj Peth) area. This land will be used for the construction of memorials dedicated to Mahatma Jyotiba and Savitribai Phule.

The families to be relocated include 592 owners and 326 tenants. The civic administration is in the final stages of deciding the new land for their relocation. The PMC has offered housing facilities to the tenants as well, which has expedited the approval process from the residents for giving up their properties, according to a senior PMC official.

Urban planners emphasize the importance of innovative steps for the rehabilitation of project-affected people. Civic bodies, often financially weak, face challenges as people are reluctant to accept compensation through Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) or Floor Space Index (FSI). Providing options like a house or land as compensation can significantly boost the chances of smooth acquisition.

The civic body may also consider covering the income tax on payouts. Tenants will be shifted to PMC-owned housing units at a nominal rent per month. This move will facilitate the upgrading of the heritage stretch and improve access to the Phule memorials.

A civic official stated that the standing committee has recently approved the policy. Most of the area will be cleared for the project. Under the approved policy, landowners will receive cash compensation at twice the ready reckoner rate after deducting construction costs, or they may opt for PMC flats at fixed rates.

Tenant and owner issues are significant hurdles in developing old properties, especially in the Peth areas. If tenants receive an assurance of permanent residence, they will be more willing to give up their properties, according to local resident Vishal Dhanwade. Senior urban planner Ramchandra Gohad added that the administration must come up with citizen-friendly solutions for land acquisition to build confidence among the people about the authorities.

The civic body will acquire 5,310 sqm under the Maharashtra Regional Town Planning (MRTP) Act and another 298 sqm under Section 205 of the same Act to build a road linking the two Phule memorials, which are located about 300 meters apart. The land, spread over 1.25 acres and valued at ₹45 crore, has been earmarked for the redevelopment of the historic premises and road infrastructure included in the city's development plan.