Approval delay hampers PMRDA Development

Proposals for five town planning schemes in the PMRDA region, submitted in January, are still pending state government clearance, causing hindrance to the region's development. The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) officials had anticipated clearance by April, but the delay is impeding progress. The proposed schemes are modelled after Gujarat's town planning approach, focusing on pooling land parcels for economical, sustainable, and equitable development through cooperative public participation. The draft development plan for these schemes, situated along the proposed 82km ring road, was approved in January, paving the way for development across nearly 5,000 hectares. These schemes, including those in Vadachiwadi, Autunde Handewadi, Holkarwadi, and Manjari Kolwadi, range from 94.44 to 233.35 hectares. While the Union government is expected to provide Rs 25 billion each for the schemes, PMRDA allocated Rs 125 billion from its budget. However, the delay is causing uncertainty among residents who are meant to contribute their lands for the projects. The PMRDA's objective is to return 50% of developed land to the owners, with an arbitrator facilitating allotment. These schemes are integral to the proposed Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority ring road, with 26 such schemes planned along the initial 32 km stretch. Earlier reports anticipated government approval by April or May, emphasizing the importance of timely clearance to avoid delays due to impending elections and the subsequent code of conduct.