In a significant development, Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra’s deputy chief minister and guardian minister of Pune, announced the state government’s decision to halt a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) agreement concerning a reserved plot in Wakad, Pimpri Chinchwad. The move comes in the wake of allegations of irregularities and claims of favoritism in the development project.
Pawar emphasized that the decision was made after thorough consultations with key officials, including the chief secretary and representatives from the department of urban development. The pause in the contentious TDR agreement aims to address concerns raised by the opposition and ensure transparency in the land development process.
During the winter session of the Maharashtra state assembly, opposition leader Vijay Wadettiwar brought attention to alleged irregularities in transferring Development Rights to a private builder for the PMPML bus depot’s development in Wakad. Wadettiwar claimed that the private builder could potentially benefit by a staggering Rs 681 crore from the deal.
However, Shekhar Singh, the PCMC Commissioner, refuted these allegations, asserting that the amenity TDR was granted to the builder based on the project’s merits and facilities it would provide.
The reserved 2.5 acres of land in Wakad intended for the PMPML bus depot is now at the center of controversy. The municipal corporation plans to transform this space into a 21-storey structure, focusing on cutting-edge design and on-site amenities. Moreover, a commercial complex is proposed to be constructed above the PMPML depot, with expectations of generating Rs 60 crore in annual revenue.
The PCMC Commissioner has reassured that the civic body is meticulously reviewing objections and will not proceed with the project if any uncertainties persist, underscoring a commitment to transparency and accountability.
