PMC investigates builder for encroaching on reserved land

Pune's municipal commissioner, Rajendra Bhosale, has ordered an inquiry into a reported encroachment by a private builder on land meant for public use. This land is designated for a maternity home and two gardens in the Hadapsar area. The issue was brought forward by Congress leader Mohan Joshi and others, who presented documents supporting their claims. Bhosale met with the complainants and city officials to discuss the matter and has instructed a prompt investigation. According to Joshi, the disputed land is owned by the irrigation department. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) had plans to develop the area into two gardens, as resolved on July 19, 2018. The PMC allocated 1,502 square meters for this development and paid ₹ 3.25 crore to the irrigation department in August 2019. However, there was a mistake in the proposal. It only reserved Survey No. 16 instead of both Survey Nos. 15 and 16. The PMC later asked the irrigation department to also include Survey No. 15. Joshi claims that despite the land's designation, the private builder has erected an ownership sign on it.