Pune: Lonavala MLA Sunil Shelke Defends Local Businesses Amid Encroachment Controversy

Lonavala, 4th July 2024: In response to the recent flooding at Bhushi Dam, which resulted in the loss of five lives on June 30th, the Pune District Collector has ordered the removal of unauthorized encroachments in the area. This directive has sparked strong opposition from Mahayuti MLA Sunil Shelke, representing the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) from Maval.

MLA Shelke met with affected shop owners yesterday, expressing his frustration with the administration. “Yesterday, I called this official, but this ‘royal man’ wasn’t picking up the phone. I will settle the matter, remember that. Give them two days; on Saturday, the Tehsildar and senior officials should come and do the marking. The construction near the wall should be removed. The encroachment action you took has caused damage and loss. You should reimburse that,” Shelke stated.

He further added, “Provide the shop owners with planned places in 2-3 days. You don’t care about the livelihood of the citizens. The administration is trying to close Bhushi Dam, a famous tourist spot. But the businesses here shouldn’t be afraid. I will try as much as I can. Erect the stalls, and I will provide the required material. Don’t set up weak, small stalls in the water.”

Shelke concluded with a stern warning: “The land of Bhushi Dam is private. The places belonged to the fathers of shopkeepers and locals. They do business for six months a year. Don’t ruin tourism, as it’s the business of Lonavala citizens. No official should put this tourism in jeopardy. Whose government is this? It doesn’t matter; we will take to the streets, and if we do, it wouldn’t be right for you. If we close the highway and Lonavala for one day, you won’t have any running ground.”

This controversy highlights the tension between local businesses reliant on tourism and administrative actions aimed at safety and regulation.