PUNE: A stop-work order from the Pune Metropolitan Regional Development Authority (PMRDA) has provided some relief to residents of Wagholi’s internal Baif Road, who have struggled with sewage around their homes for nearly two years.
The order, which took effect on October 9, halts two construction projects in the area and demands that builders submit an alternative development plan within 60 days. This plan must demonstrate a viable strategy for managing future drainage and sewage generated by these buildings.
The directive followed several meetings between PMRDA officials, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) engineers, builders, and local residents in recent weeks, along with a recent site inspection by PMRDA officials.
In a report published on September 8, 2025, titled ‘Sewage is everywhere in this Wagholi locality,’ residents expressed their frustrations over rampant construction without corresponding upgrades to drainage infrastructure. They reported that sewage frequently overflowed into their yards, creating an unbearable stench and raising health concerns.
Residents noted that the TOI article drew officials’ attention after prior unsuccessful attempts to address their concerns. “Before the article was published, we had approached officials many times, but to no avail. We were losing hope. The order is a relief for over 5,000 residents, and we are thankful,” said Rupesh Pardeshi, chairman of Kalpak Homes, one of the most affected societies.
“Our main hope now is that PMRDA will enforce this order and hold builders accountable if they fail to follow through,” he added.
According to the order, the two builders are required to devise an alternative plan for managing sewage that will result from their developments once inhabited. They must submit this plan to the PMRDA for approval before work can resume.
Avinash Patil, director of town planning at PMRDA, told TOI, “I attended the site visit. We had discussions with residents and other officials. Builders cannot proceed under these conditions. The situation will worsen once the buildings are completed and occupied. We want to prevent a repeat of these issues. The relevant authorities will also examine broader drainage concerns. We will guarantee that the submitted plan complies with regulations and resolves the sewage problem before lifting the stop-work order.”
Another Wagholi resident, who wished to remain anonymous due to security concerns, stated, “This is just the first step. Our goal in meeting with officials was to address the issues on internal Baif Road, but many areas in Wagholi have similar challenges. If PMRDA follows through, it could benefit thousands and set a standard for builder and authority conduct. We hope our drainage issues will lessen, particularly regarding connections to the main line.”
A total of 11 societies affected by drainage problems in this locality participated in the meetings. Residents also raised concerns about FSI misuse and false documentation submitted by builders.
“While we are thankful for this action, we hope PMRDA makes the correct decisions after the 60-day deadline. It will take a series of decisions to resolve the issues we face. We have endured enough,” remarked another resident, Ajay Pardeshi.
As the 60-day deadline progresses, residents are planning to file a joint petition with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to ensure accountability and seek a permanent resolution.
