PMRDA demolishes billboards in Hinjewadi
Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has launched a fierce campaign against unauthorised hoardings in its jurisdiction.
On April 13, officials demolished an illegal structure in Hinjawadi. PMRDA Commissioner Dr Abhijit Choudhary has ordered strict action against unauthorised constructions and hoardings. Acting on these instructions, the encroachment removal department intensified its drive. At survey number 206 in Hinjawadi (Mulshi taluka), a steel frame covering about 1,250 square feet was found to be erected without sanction. The structure was razed. The action was carried out under Sections 52 to 56 of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act, 1966. No prior permission had been obtained for the hoarding. Officials warned that such illegal structures not only cause financial loss but also pose risks to life. Ignoring notices could lead to prosecution under IPC Sections 336 (endangering life) and 420.
Encroachment removal officer Himat Kharade stated that offenders face imprisonment from one month to three years and fines up to Rs 5,000. If owners fail to remove illegal hoardings themselves, the authority will recover demolition costs and penalties.
The operation was conducted under the orders of Commissioner Dr Abhijit Choudhary, with Additional Commissioner K Manjulakshmi and Chief Vigilance Officer Amol Zhende overseeing. The team included Tehsildars Asha Holkar and Ravindra Ranjane. PMRDA has warned that similar drives will continue across the region, and those without proper permits must apply immediately.
QR code and geo-fencing mandatory
To prevent disfigurement of the city and avert accidents, hoarding permissions will now be processed online. Every authorised board must carry a QR code and geo-fencing. Applicants with pending or incomplete proposals have been given a final chance to submit proper documents and payments. Those who ignore notices will face demolition this week.
Commissioner's directives
Adopt a fully transparent online system
for hoarding permissions.
Illegal hoardings not removed within the deadline will be demolished by the authority.
Persistent defaulters will face strict legal action.
Incomplete proposals must be corrected immediately with proper documents and fee payment.