Pimpri Chinchwad: Local MLAs Face Voter Boycott as PCMC Targets Flood Line Homes for Demolition

Reported by Varad Bhatkhande

Sangvi, 20th September 2024: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has launched a campaign targeting illegal structures built within the blue flood line areas along the Pawana, Indrayani, and Mula rivers. During the ongoing survey, authorities have identified 2,500 unauthorized buildings, and property owners have been served official notices. However, locals have opposed the demolition of these structures.

The Flood Line Resident Protection Committee has warned that eight lakh voters will not support the three MLAs from Pimpri Chinchwad in the upcoming elections if the houses in the flood line are demolished. Despite this, the PCMC administration remains firm on taking action.

Due to heavy rainfall and dam discharge, the Pawana, Mula, and Indrayani rivers in Pimpri Chinchwad were flooded, causing water to enter homes along the riverbanks. In response, the PCMC conducted a survey of the structures within the flood line. Residents of the Sangvi area have strongly opposed this move. They have taken the stance that if the houses in Sangvi are demolished, eight lakh voters will refuse to support the three local MLAs in future elections. Boards raising public awareness on this issue have been placed around the Sangvi area, while the PCMC administration remains resolute.

Deputy Commissioner Manoj Lonkar, in charge of the PCMC’s Anti-Encroachment Department, stated that a survey of residential and commercial structures along the riverbed and flood line is being conducted by the ward office. So far, 2,500 unauthorized constructions have been identified, and notices are being issued to all property owners. The survey is in its final stages, and once complete, action will be taken against the unauthorized structures.