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An allegedly unauthorised reinforced cement concrete (RCC) structure on Pune's Baner Hills has continued to stand more than five years after the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) issued an order for its demolition, prompting renewed concerns from local residents and environmental groups about delayed enforcement. The structure, located in a zone reserved as a biodiversity park (BDP), was found to have been constructed without civic approval, and a notice was issued at the end of 2020 directing its removal within 30 days. Despite this, the structure which houses a statue remains intact, with activists and citizens groups urging prompt action to address potential safety risks given its proximity to a busy highway. PMC officials have said the matter is currently subject to ongoing court proceedings.
A reinforced cement concrete (RCC) structure on Baner Hills in Pune has defied a demolition order issued by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) more than five years ago, prompting criticism from local residents and environmental advocates over slow action and potential hazards. The structure, located on land in survey number 49 that is reserved for a biodiversity park (BDP), was found to have been built without civic approval, and the corporation issued a demolition notice at the end of 2020, directing its removal within 30 days. Advertisement
Despite the notice, the allegedly unauthorised structure which contains a statue remains standing. The BDP designation is intended to protect ecologically sensitive hillsides, preserve green cover and safeguard water aquifers and natural habitats. Residents and members of the citizens collective Save Pune Hills said they first noticed the encroachment during the Covid-19 lockdown, when on-ground monitoring was limited, and have since repeatedly raised the issue with municipal officials.
Critics argue that the continued presence of the structure reflects enforcement gaps and raises safety concerns, particularly because it stands close to a busy highway below. There is apprehension about the potential consequences if the structure were to collapse, with activists urging clear action to uphold planning regulations and protect the biodiversity park zone.
A PMC official told news agencies that the case is currently before the Bombay High Court, as the builders of the structure challenged the demolition notice in legal proceedings. Because the matter is sub judice, the official said additional details could not be disclosed. Meanwhile, residents and advocacy groups continue to press for clarification on the status of the case and for decisive steps to address the longstanding issue.
The Baner Hills incident has highlighted broader concerns about the protection and management of Pune's biodiversity park zones, where special land-use restrictions apply to prevent uncontrolled development and preserve ecological balance. Local groups have reiterated calls for stronger enforcement and greater transparency from civic authorities in addressing similar unauthorised constructions.
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