Pune: In an effort to enhance safety along the Palkhi procession routes, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) initiated a special operation on Tuesday to clear unauthorized and potentially dangerous hoardings from prominent locations, including Loni Kalbhor on the Pune–Solapur Road in Haveli Taluka.
This campaign, aimed at preparing for the upcoming Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi events, focuses on eliminating illegal hoardings within the PMRDA’s jurisdiction. So far, officials have removed 21 such structures, with plans to continue the clearance over the next ten days.
Given the challenges posed by the monsoon season—such as heavy rainfall and strong winds—unstable and oversized hoardings pose a significant threat to public safety. PMRDA representatives stressed that ensuring the safety of the public remains their highest priority, with daily enforcement measures being rigorously implemented.
Property owners and advertisers have been advised to take proactive steps by removing unauthorized and unsafe hoardings, especially those that obstruct traffic or visibility. Should they fail to comply, the PMRDA teams will proceed with removal operations without further notice. The authority also reaffirmed that no new hoardings will be approved without proper authorization.
The drive is being overseen by Additional Commissioner Deepak Singla, Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Yogesh Mhase, Joint Commissioner Sanjay Gaikwad, SP Amol Tambe, and Deputy Collector Dr. Deepti Suryawanshi-Patil, with active support from local police and demolition crews.
