Pune: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is gearing up to take decisive action against the illegal godowns situated along the Gangadham to Katraj Kondhwa Road. Several businessmen have obtained stay orders from the courts after receiving notices from the PMC regarding unauthorized constructions on hilltops and hillslopes. However, in light of the recent fire incident, the civic administration intends to approach the courts to request the lifting of these stay orders, as stated by City Engineer Prashant Waghmare.
Numerous godowns have been constructed on the Gangadham to Katraj Kondhwa Road, particularly near Bibvewadi and Kondhwa areas. Since this region is classified as a hilltop and hillslope zone according to the Development Plan, three times the usual tax has been imposed on these godowns. The building construction department has already demolished some of the unauthorized godowns after issuing necessary notices. Nevertheless, certain businessmen have obtained stay orders from the courts, halting further civic action. However, in light of a recent fire outbreak that occurred on Sunday, the PMC is determined to present these cases of stay orders before the courts and seek their removal, allowing for strict action to be taken.
The fire incident on Sunday resulted in the destruction of twenty godowns. Due to the narrow roads in the area, fire tenders faced difficulty in reaching the affected godowns promptly. Nonetheless, with the assistance of over 100 firefighters and 22 fire tenders, the blaze was brought under control after four hours. Fortunately, since the incident occurred during the day, the firefighting efforts were successful in preventing the fire from spreading to nearby settlements. However, had the incident occurred at night, the consequences could have been far more severe.
City Engineer Prashant Waghmare emphasized that the PMC has consistently taken action against illegal godowns in the past. However, owners of these godowns have obtained stay orders from the courts, temporarily preventing any civic action. The PMC intends to present these cases to the courts once again, highlighting the need to lift the stay orders and enabling strict action against the illegal godowns.
The PMC’s commitment to addressing the issue of illegal godowns stems from concerns about public safety and adherence to building regulations. The recent fire incident has underscored the risks associated with unauthorized constructions, especially in densely populated areas. By seeking the lifting of stay orders and taking strict action against illegal godowns, the PMC aims to mitigate potential hazards and ensure compliance with established norms.
It is crucial for the PMC to work in collaboration with the courts and other relevant authorities to resolve this issue effectively. By doing so, they can not only prevent future fire incidents but also preserve the safety and well-being of residents in the affected areas.
The PMC urges all citizens to remain vigilant and report any instances of illegal constructions or potential fire hazards to the concerned authorities. Public cooperation plays a vital role in maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone.
For further updates on the actions taken by the PMC against illegal godowns and the outcome of their legal proceedings, citizens are advised to stay updated through official PMC communications and announcements.
