A nearly 300-metre-long patch of Hinjewadi IT Park Phase II, from Wipro Circle to Marunji Laxmi Chowk that had been blocked for almost six years, was cleared on Thursday by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). The block was causing massive traffic jams in the Hinjewadi area.
In a significant move to address civic issues and traffic congestion in Hinjewadi, Maan, and Marunji areas, the civic body has begun clearing encroachments and reopening blocked roads. “One of the key roads — stretching from Hinjewadi Phase II (Wipro Circle) to Marunji Laxmi Chowk — which had been blocked, is being reopened for traffic,” said the PMRDA spokesperson.
Dr Yogesh Mhase, PMRDA commissioner, who inspected various spots in Hinjewadi IT Park last week, identified certain blocks that had been causing major traffic jams. “The road at Marunji Chowk was blocked with stones and debris. Approached roads were already constructed but due to this block, commuters were not able to use these, causing major traffic snarls. So we decided to clear and reopen the road,” Dr Mhase said.
During the operation, several business owners voluntarily removed their encroachments, helping clear the path for vehicular traffic. With PMRDA taking charge of the long-delayed roadwork, a significant relief from traffic congestion is expected. This road is likely to prove crucial for local residents and those working in the IT sector in terms of daily commute and connectivity.
As for the June 30 deadline set by PMRDA to remove encroachments covering nullahs, officials said legal action would be taken next week against those who failed to comply. Some of the nullahs fall under the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) jurisdiction, while the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) manages the others.
The encroachments in the Hinjewadi region, including on the Metro route and other areas, had disrupted natural water flow in streams and drains, causing a flood-like situation when it rains. As a result, notices had been issued to the parties concerned.
Dnyanendra Hulsure, president of Hinjewadi Employees and Residents Trust (Heart), said, “It was a long-pending issue. We organised meetings regarding this seven years ago. The locals had blocked the road because the government didn’t give them anything in return for their land.”
mid-day has highlighted civic issues in the Hinjewadi IT Park area several times, including the recent waterlogging and traffic snarls following heavy rain.
Last week, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Ashwini Bhide directed the PMRDA, MIDC and other agencies concerned to immediately carry out a detailed hydraulic study and assess the feasibility of a storm water drainage network in the Hinjewadi area due to repeated complaints of flooding and failed civic infrastructure.
The directives came during a high-level review meeting chaired by Bhide. The PMRDA submitted a report to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) detailing the steps taken so far and the planned interventions to address the worsening civic situation in the key IT corridor. The meeting focused on a range of issues, including land acquisition for infrastructure, solid waste management, temporary drainage solutions, pothole repairs, and inter-agency coordination for comprehensive planning and execution. Immediate measures include PMRDA conducting a hydraulic study and preparing a stormwater drain network feasibility report covering Hinjewadi Phases I, II, and III.
Speaking with media persons on Friday, Baramati MP Supriya Sule said, “I decided to visit Hinjewadi two times a month. We demanded that the state government form a competent authority for the Hinjewadi belt. There was massive construction in the area over the last five years, and it has resulted in a lot of chaos. The chief minister should hold a joint meeting with MIDC, PMRDA, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, the national highway authority, and all bodies involved in Hinjewadi. I have already demanded time from the CM for a meeting to address this issue immediately.”
June 30
Last deadline for clearing encroachments over nullahs
