PUNE. 23 NOV. The Pune Water Resources Department has initiated a comprehensive and decisive demolition drive against illegal resorts, hotels, and liquor establishments located within the sensitive catchment areas of the Khadakwasla and Pawna dams. This large-scale operation was launched following repeated concerns and official warnings regarding unauthorized construction and severe environmental pollution threatening the primary water source for Pune city.
The department's action targeted numerous encroachments, including permanent buildings, temporary sheds, and commercial structures, with officials identifying at least 23 properties for immediate demolition. The crackdown was necessitated after drone surveys and inspections revealed that these illegal establishments were directly violating environmental safety norms and contributing significantly to the contamination of the reservoir.
A major point of concern leading to the action was the discovery that several hotel and resort owners had set up tables and chairs directly in the dam's backwaters, where they were serving food and drinks, including alcohol, to patrons. Furthermore, these unauthorized structures were allegedly discharging untreated sewage and other effluents directly into the dam water, posing a serious health and environmental hazard to the populace relying on the reservoir for drinking water.
The demolition drive was executed in coordination with the District Collector's office, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), and the local police department, which provided heavy security cover to ensure smooth operation. Authorities had previously issued multiple notices to the owners of these 23 structures—with the final notice being served after a prolonged period—giving them ample opportunity to remove the illegal constructions voluntarily.
Officials have stated that this stern action is part of a broader campaign to secure the critical water infrastructure and maintain the ecological integrity of the dam's buffer zone. The department has made it clear that no further unauthorized commercial activity will be tolerated in the ecologically sensitive perimeter surrounding Pune's vital reservoirs. The authorities also warned that similar actions will be taken against other identified illegal constructions along the Panshet, Sinhagad, and Donje roads in the coming days.
000
