The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has escalated its anti-encroachment efforts in Chikhali, resulting in the demolition of numerous scrap shops, warehouses, and small businesses.
This operation, initiated last week and now entering its sixth day, has rendered approximately 100,000 workers unemployed and has significantly impacted the local economy.
The businesses affected were integral to the region’s automobile industry, collectively generating an annual turnover of around Rs 1,000 crore. The abrupt closure of these establishments has forced thousands of families into financial turmoil, as they have lost their main source of income.
The extensive demolitions have also led to a surge in land prices in Chikhali, with builders eyeing around 1,000 acres for new development projects.
PCMC is expanding its anti-encroachment activities to additional areas including Kudalwadi, Jadhavwadi, Hargudevasti, and Pawar Vasti. More than 5,000 commercial establishments have received notices, granting them 15 days to vacate encroachments. The operation is projected to conclude by February 16, as per PCMC’s encroachment department.
Commissioner Shekhar Singh noted that numerous notices had been issued in the past, and while previous demolitions occurred, unauthorized structures were rebuilt, necessitating renewed action from the civic body.
The crackdown has markedly disrupted Chikhali’s business landscape, hindering the supply of raw materials to small industries. Traders from cities like Surat, Mumbai, Nashik, and Jalna are experiencing the fallout, while decades-old small-scale industries in Kudalwadi now face imminent collapse.
REAL ESTATE OPPORTUNITIES RISE
The extensive demolitions have sparked speculation about potential benefits for real estate developers. Chikhali and Kudalwadi, positioned between Dehu-Alandi Road and Spine Road, have emerged as prime targets for real estate investment. The region is currently undergoing rapid infrastructure development, with the construction of a police commissioner’s office, a district court, and a government engineering college.
ECONOMIC DISRUPTION FOR LOCALS
The demolition efforts have also inflicted economic hardship on local villagers who leased their land to businesses. These individuals, once generating substantial monthly rental income, have suddenly lost their primary financial lifeline, leading to an economic crisis for many households.
