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PCMC Demolishes 36 Illegal Bungalows in River Flood Zone Following Supreme Court Order

The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation completed the demolitions on May 17, 2025, and plans further action against over 2,500 unauthorized structures in flood-prone areas.

The demolition drive, which began around 6 am under heavy police protection, lasted for around 5 pm when all the riverside structures were brought down using a large number of earthmovers.   (HT PHOTO)
Flood lines are demarcated by the irrigation department based on flood risk assessments, and any construction activity within these zones is prohibited. (MAHENDRA KOLHE/ HT)
The Supreme Court on May 5 upheld a National Green Tribunal ruling for the demolitions. (HT PHOTO)
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Overview

  • The demolition of 36 bungalows in the Indrayani River's blue flood line zone began early on May 17, 2025, under heavy police protection.
  • The Supreme Court upheld a National Green Tribunal order from July 2024, mandating the demolitions and ₹5 crore in environmental compensation from property owners.
  • PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh confirmed the demolitions were conducted before the monsoon season, as regulations prohibit such actions starting June 1.
  • Environmental activist Tanaji Gambhire initiated the case, citing the ecological risks of construction in prohibited flood-prone zones.
  • PCMC has identified 2,534 additional illegal structures in the Pavana, Indrayani, and Mula river zones for phased demolition in compliance with environmental regulations.