The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has taken a decisive step to address the pressing issue of unauthorized rooftop hotels proliferating across the city. In response to the alarming trend of these establishments operating without the necessary permits, the PMC, in collaboration with the District Administration, Pune City Police, and State Excise Department, has convened a joint meeting scheduled for Thursday, September 14th.
The emergence of illegal rooftop bars and hotels, operating without official approval from municipal authorities, has raised significant concerns among residents in affected areas. These unauthorized establishments not only disrupt local communities but also pose substantial safety hazards, particularly in cases of fire emergencies, where swift evacuation may be impeded, potentially endangering lives.
Compounding the problem, these illicit rooftop hotels face triple taxation, yet some hoteliers, allegedly under political pressure, persist in flouting regulations and reopening their establishments despite municipal orders to demolish them.
To add to the complexity of the situation, the Pune Police have formally written to both the district administration and the Pune Municipal Corporation, expressing concerns about the law and order situation in the vicinity of these hotels.
The Pune Municipal Corporation has adopted a resolute stance against hotels operating in unauthorized locations. They stress the importance of obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Municipal Corporation before acquiring licenses for selling alcohol and running hotels. The PMC has also communicated its intention to withhold permissions for businesses that violate construction regulations to the District Collector.
Against this backdrop, a crucial meeting has been scheduled for Thursday, September 14th, bringing together key officials from the Pune Municipal Corporation’s Building Permission Department, the District Administration, Police, and the State Excise Department. During this meeting, the Municipal Corporation will present its case and advocate for the necessity of obtaining an NOC, which they believe is the key to resolving the issue of illegal rooftop hotels.
Commissioner Vikram Kumar expressed confidence that by adhering to the PMC’s NOC requirements, a resolution can be reached. This would not only address the persistent problem of illegal rooftop hotels in Pune but also ensure the safety and well-being of both residents and visitors in the city.
