In a remarkable development poised to reshape Pune’s infrastructure landscape, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has embarked on an ambitious land acquisition initiative to facilitate the expansion of the Mhalunge-Maan road network. This project aims to construct an impressive 25 kilometers of new roadways, spanning a sprawling 49 hectares of land. The endeavor promises to benefit approximately 5,800 stakeholders while affording landowners the opportunity to reclaim 50% of their developed land.
Mr. Ramdas Jagtap, Deputy Collector of PMRDA, shed light on the significance of this pivotal undertaking, stating, “We have officially initiated the land acquisition process, a crucial step in advancing road infrastructure development and associated amenities. The project is estimated to cost around ₹4.50 crore and encompasses the creation of wide 24-meter roads within the meticulously planned Mhalunge-Maan town development scheme. Landowners have been duly apprised of the acquisition process through formal notifications.”
The next significant milestone on the project’s timeline hinges on the eagerly anticipated approval by the state government. This approval will encompass adjustments related to flood lines for 56 specific plots within the proposed development zone. Once granted, construction of these critical roadways will swiftly commence. Jagtap assured that the project has taken into account the issue of flood-prone areas and has allocated alternative spaces for affected plots.
Jagtap candidly acknowledged the challenges faced by the project, including setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and legal disputes brought forward by certain landowners. “Some landowners had raised objections to the scheme and even sought recourse in the High Court,” he explained. “However, their case was ultimately dismissed. We are now well-prepared to expedite the work, and PMRDA has earmarked ₹100 crore to finance this comprehensive town planning scheme.”
Last month, the High Court delivered a verdict dismissing a request to annul the Mhalunge-Maan Town planning scheme, effectively granting the project the necessary green light to proceed.
Inspired by Gujarat’s successful town planning scheme, the Mhalunge-Maan endeavor presents a unique opportunity for landowners. It allows them to reclaim 50% of their developed land within the same area where arbitration was conducted. Landowners with undisputed property titles have already received their plots, and those situated in flood-prone regions can expect to receive theirs in due course. Spanning 250 hectares, this expansive scheme encompasses 319 plots in Mhalunge and an additional 32 in Maan. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide their suggestions and objections regarding the plots, with the submission deadline set for September 9.
As the Mhalunge-Maan Road Expansion Project moves forward, it promises not only to enhance Pune’s infrastructure but also to offer landowners a unique opportunity for development and growth within the region. The PMRDA’s commitment to overcoming challenges and advancing this transformative initiative underscores the significance of this endeavor for the city’s future.
