PMRDA to set up anti- encroachment squad; 1,072 illegal structures, hoardings removed

Pune: PMRDA will set up a dedicated anti-encroachment squad with additional manpower and machinery to crack down on illegal constructions, hoardings, and encroachments on roads and reserved plots. The squad will focus on both preventing fresh encroachments and removing existing ones, Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) commissioner Abhijit Chaudhary said on Tuesday.Since Jan 2026, PMRDA has removed 153 unauthorised hoardings and 919 illegal constructions, officials said. The authority will also introduce paid parking at Sector 11 and Sector 12 in Moshi to curb unauthorised parking.Addressing persistent traffic congestion in Chakan, Chaudhary said seven roads are being developed under Chakan decongestion project. These are expected to be completed by Nov–Dec. Land acquisition for four other roads is currently underway. Additionally, proposals for land acquisition for the western bypass and roads in Mhalunge area have been sent to the district collector.PMRDA plans to complete around 6,500 affordable houses coming up at Sector 12, Moshi, by Dec 2026 and will subsequently conduct a lottery for allotment. It plans to develop at least one affordable housing project under PMAY 2 scheme in each taluka around future growth hubs.Meanwhile, under its Indrayani river improvement project, work orders will be issued after the model code of conduct is lifted, officials added.