Pune: PMRDA Cracks Down on Unauthorised Hoardings Along Palkhi Route for Warkari Safety
Pune, May 29, 2025: The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has launched a major drive to dismantle unauthorized and dangerous hoardings along the Palkhi route ahead of the annual Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage. In a recent operation, 21 illegal hoardings were removed, with plans to clear all remaining unauthorized structures within the next 10 days.
The crackdown focuses on ensuring the safety of warkaris (devotees) during the procession of the palkhis (palanquins) of Sant Tukaram Maharaj and Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj. The palkhi of Sant Tukaram Maharaj will depart from Dehu on June 18, while Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj’s palkhi will leave Alandi on June 19. Both processions will converge in Pune on June 20 before proceeding to Pandharpur on June 22.
PMRDA officials have also urged the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to take action against illegal hoardings under its jurisdiction. Deputy District Collector Dipti Suryavanshi Patil stated that the demolition drive, which began on April 22, has already removed 46 unauthorized hoardings, including 21 along the Palkhi route.
PMRDA Joint Commissioner Sanjay Kadam warned that hoarding owners must obtain proper permissions or face legal action. “These illegal structures endanger public safety, especially during monsoon winds and rains,” he said. A recent survey identified 967 unauthorized hoardings, with 90 already demolished. The remaining will be removed, prioritizing those posing traffic hazards or structural risks.
Authorities have advised advertisers and landowners to voluntarily remove dangerous hoardings or face punitive measures, including FIRs.
