Pune: Swift Action on Unauthorized Construction with 24-Hour Demolition Orders
The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is taking a firm stance against unauthorized constructions, with immediate demolition orders for illegal buildings. Here's what you need to know.
Unauthorized ConstructionPcmcDemolitionPimpri ChinchwadReal EstateReal Estate PuneJul 22, 2025
The drive comes on the heels of strict directives issued earlier this month by PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh, urging anti-encroachment squads to take swift action at the initial stages of illegal construction, rather than waiting until buildings are completed and occupied.
“The idea is to nip the problem in the bud,” a senior PCMC official said. “Once the structure is complete and people have moved in, the issue becomes not just administrative but humanitarian. Our priority is early intervention.”
New Focus: Early Detection and Swift Demolition
Officials confirmed that their focus is now on identifying new constructions in real time. Beat inspectors across all zones have been instructed to actively survey their areas and verify permits for any ongoing work.
“If a structure is found to be going up without proper permissions, we serve a notice and proceed with demolition within 24 hours,” the official added. “We are working strictly in accordance with the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act.”
This move follows a wave of criticism the PCMC faced in May, when it razed 36 illegal bungalows built within the Indrayani River’s blue flood line in Chikhali. Residents at the time accused the civic body of turning a blind eye during the construction phase, only to act years later after families had settled in.
“This time, we won’t wait for that to happen again,” the official asserted.
Why Action Is Limited During Monsoon
According to officials, the current crackdown is limited to under-construction structures. No action is being taken against completed and occupied buildings during the monsoon season, in line with Bombay High Court directives that protect residents from eviction and demolition during inclement weather.
“We are following court orders and not targeting homes that are already occupied at this time,” the official said. “However, owners of such structures have been served notices and given 30 days to comply and remove illegal portions voluntarily.”
No Tolerance for Unauthorised Development
The PCMC has made it clear that this is just the beginning of a larger anti-illegal construction campaign. More demolitions are expected in the coming weeks as the corporation tightens its surveillance and enforcement mechanisms.
“We are not against development. But it must happen within the boundaries of the law,” the official said. “Unauthorized structures pose serious safety, environmental, and infrastructure risks. We will continue to act—swiftly and decisively.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PCMC's new approach to unauthorized constructions?
The PCMC is now focusing on early detection and swift demolition of unauthorized constructions. They aim to serve notices and proceed with demolition within 24 hours of identifying an illegal structure.
Why is early intervention important in tackling unauthorized constructions?
Early intervention helps prevent the issue from becoming both administrative and humanitarian. Once structures are complete and occupied, it becomes more challenging to address the problem without causing significant disruption.
What actions are being taken during the monsoon season?
During the monsoon season, the PCMC is not taking action against completed and occupied buildings. However, owners of such structures have been served notices and given 30 days to comply and remove illegal portions voluntarily.
What legal framework is the PCMC following for these actions?
The PCMC is strictly following the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act and the directives from the Bombay High Court, which protect residents from eviction and demolition during inclement weather.
What are the risks associated with unauthorized constructions?
Unauthorized structures pose serious safety, environmental, and infrastructure risks. They can lead to potential hazards for residents and the community, and often violate urban planning regulations.
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