Pune: In a renewed effort to maintain order and ensure public safety, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has intensified its crackdown on unauthorised mango sellers operating along the NDA-Pashan Road within the Kothrud-Bavdhan ward. The latest enforcement drive, led by the anti-encroachment department, comes after numerous complaints from residents and commuters regarding obstructions caused by roadside hawkers.
Civic officials reported that the vendors had set up makeshift stalls on this heavily trafficked stretch, leading to traffic snarls and posing safety hazards for pedestrians. Although several actions have been taken previously, the illegal vendors repeatedly return to the same spot shortly after the area is cleared. So far this mango season, PMC has conducted four to five such operations in this location.
“The NDA-Pashan Road is a key connector between Bavdhan and other parts of Pune. Unauthorized hawkers not only obstruct the sidewalks and roadsides but also create major traffic issues and put pedestrians at risk,” said Sandip Khalate from PMC’s anti-encroachment department. “We will continue to act repeatedly until the area is permanently cleared.”
PMC officials have also urged the public to avoid purchasing fruits from illegal stalls and instead support licensed markets. The civic body is now exploring stricter interventions, such as round-the-clock surveillance and fines, to curb recurring encroachments.
While local residents have lauded the PMC’s efforts, many remain concerned about the lack of lasting impact. “We’re glad the authorities are taking action, but unless monitoring is continuous, the problem resurfaces within days,” said Bavdhan resident Rutuja Bhise.
The PMC has assured that similar anti-hawking operations will be carried out across the city to tackle illegal vending and uphold safety for all road users.
