Pune: High Court Orders Survey of Illegal Constructions Near Khadki Ammunition Factory

Pune: Bombay High Court has directed the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporations, along with the Ministry of Defence, to conduct a survey of illegal constructions in the restricted area of the ammunition factory in Khadki.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay and Justice Arif Doctor issued the directive, emphasising that the issue extends beyond illegal constructions to encroachments on Defence Ministry premises. The court stressed the importance of completing the survey promptly.

While the matter remains pending in the Supreme Court, the High Court expressed concern over encroachments on lands owned by the Preservation Department following the submission of the survey report. The bench urged the defence department to take proactive measures and assured that appropriate action would be taken based on the findings.

The PIL, filed by two Pune-based residents, highlights the presence of residential buildings in the restricted area of the ammunition factory. The petition seeks to prohibit further construction in the area. In response, the court ordered a survey of the illegal construction.

During previous hearings, the state government faced criticism for allowing construction in the area despite the petitions. The court condemned the irregular urban planning, emphasising the risks posed to human life by constructing buildings in restricted zones.

Meanwhile, the court ordered the Ministry of Defence, State Government, Commissioner of Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporations, and Pune Collector to hold a meeting about it and find a workable solution to the issue. Also, the court warned that strict action would be taken if the defendant failed to find the necessary solution in this case.