Pune Police and Municipal Corporation Demolishes Illegal Constructions At Pubs, Hotels And Shops Following Drug Video Outrage

Reported by Sumit Singh

Shivajinagar, 25th June 2024: A video showing youths taking drugs in the bathroom of L3 – Liquid Leisure Lounge on Ferguson Road in Pune has gone viral on social media, sparking a strong reaction from city and state leaders. Criticism of the Maharashtra state government ensued, with calls for strict action against illegal pubs to make Pune city drug-free.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde ordered Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar to take immediate action against illegal constructions related to drugs, including the use of bulldozers.

In response, the Pune Police and Municipal Administration have mobilized. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) began demolishing unauthorized hotels and pubs on Ferguson Road this morning. The Building Development Department of the PMC removed unlicensed sheds and structures from the front and margins of hotels, bars, and shops. Despite previous actions, these businesses had re-encroached using materials like tin, plastic and cloth. Today, approximately 9,000 to 10,000 square feet of space was cleared, affecting 12 to 15 businesses, including Vaishali Hotel, part of Shirole Mall, and Culture Hotel.

The State Excise Department also took swift action following the viral footage of an illegal party and drug consumption at L3 bar on Ferguson Road. The license of L3 Bar was revoked due to the unauthorized party, which included minors. Both the Pune Police and the State Excise Department have initiated measures following the video’s release.