Wakad road suna suna due to encroachment action

Demolition Drive Leaves Wakad Road Desolate

Pimpri-Chinchwad: The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation’s anti-encroachment squad has initiated a demolition drive on Datt Mandir Road in Wakad. As a result, what was once a busy, bustling road has now turned eerily desolate, resembling an earthquake-affected village like Killar in its aftermath. The area now bears the marks of collapsed buildings, destroyed businesses, and heaps of discarded materials, drastically changing the landscape. The action has severely impacted both business owners and local residents. However, municipal authorities have assured that Wakad Road will become more spacious and beautiful in the future.

Desolate Food Stalls and Shops

Wakad Road was once famous for its food stalls, small businesses, and hotels, frequented by people due to the nearby Hinjewadi IT Park. The area was usually teeming with people. However, following the municipal corporation’s crackdown on illegal construction on Monday (7th), the road has undergone a complete transformation. With half-demolished buildings and scattered debris, the area now resembles a post-disaster zone, akin to the devastation seen in Killar after an earthquake.

Massive Loss for Business Owners

This demolition has caused significant financial damage to hundreds of small business owners. Many shopkeepers had invested their life savings to set up their businesses. One such shopkeeper shared with Pudhari, “The sudden demolition has wiped out our entire business. Now, we can’t even begin to think about how to rebuild.” In the chaos, several business owners tried to salvage their goods, but many items were damaged in the process.

Local People Hit Financially

The businesses on Wakad Road had become a primary source of income for the local population. Many residents had rented out spaces, earning lakhs in rent. With the demolition, this source of income has been abruptly cut off.

Municipal Decision and Local Outrage

The municipal corporation defended its actions, stating that illegal constructions were obstructing traffic and causing problems. However, local residents and business owners have strongly criticized the municipal decision and staged protests. Despite the opposition, the municipal corporation continued the demolition drive, even on the following day, ignoring the protests.