Pune, August 16, 2023: The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) is facing significant delays in its developmental endeavors as proposals for five town planning schemes submitted in January are still awaiting state government clearance. The delay in approval is hindering the progress of the region’s development, causing frustration among officials who initially anticipated clearance by April.
The proposed town planning schemes are designed following a model similar to Gujarat’s approach, focusing on the efficient utilization of land parcels for sustainable and equitable development through collaborative public participation. The draft development plan for these schemes, situated along the proposed 82km ring road, received approval in January, thereby paving the way for development across nearly 5,000 hectares.
These town planning schemes, encompassing areas such as Vadachiwadi, Autunde Handewadi, Holkarwadi, and Manjari Kolwadi, span from 94.44 to 233.35 hectares. While the Union government is expected to allocate Rs 25 billion for each of these schemes, PMRDA has already earmarked Rs 125 billion from its budget for their implementation.
The delay in state government clearance is causing apprehension and uncertainty among residents who are expected to contribute their land parcels for these developmental projects. One of PMRDA’s key objectives is to return 50% of the developed land to the original landowners, with an arbitrator overseeing the allotment process. These schemes play a pivotal role in the proposed Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority ring road project, with a total of 26 schemes planned along the initial 32 km stretch.
Initial reports had indicated that government approval would be secured by April or May, underscoring the significance of timely clearance to avoid any disruptions due to upcoming elections and the subsequent implementation of the code of conduct. The ongoing delay not only hampers the region’s development but also introduces challenges and uncertainties for all stakeholders involved.
