PMRDA Proposes Inclusion of 180 Villages for Planned Growth

The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has proposed to expand its jurisdiction by incorporating 180 villages from the Baramati and Purandar talukas. This initiative aims to facilitate organized development around the upcoming Purandar airport. A formal proposal was submitted to the state urban development department earlier this week, as confirmed by PMRDA officials.

This move follows a request from Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to include these talukas under the PMRDA’s planning framework. Currently, the remaining villages in both Baramati and Purandar fall under the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation’s jurisdiction.

Significance of the Proposal

PMRDA Commissioner Yogesh Mhase explained that the villages targeted for inclusion are currently managed by the Pune collectorate. He emphasized the importance of coordinated growth in Baramati and Purandar, particularly due to the anticipated developments linked to the new airport. If the proposal is approved, PMRDA’s jurisdiction will expand from 697 to 877 villages, significantly increasing its oversight capabilities.

These villages are situated within the “influence area” of the planned airport but are not currently covered by any regional development plan. An official noted, “Once included, a separate authority like PMRDA can monitor construction, infrastructure, and land use, preventing haphazard growth.”

At present, PMRDA oversees an area of 6,914 square kilometers across nine talukas, including Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. With a population exceeding 7.3 million, it stands as the largest planning authority in Maharashtra. The integration of Baramati would mark the addition of a tenth taluka to PMRDA’s jurisdiction.

Impacts on Local Development

Officials have noted a surge in urbanization in Baramati, driven by increasing demands for roads, housing, and civic amenities. Similarly, Purandar’s strategic placement near the proposed international airport is crucial for future growth. “These areas will see a spurt in land transactions, commercial hubs, and industrial units once the airport project takes off,” an official stated.

The inclusion under PMRDA is expected to enable structured development rather than unplanned, piecemeal growth. A political observer highlighted that this initiative could enhance Baramati’s development profile, especially ahead of upcoming civic elections, enabling the region to benefit from PMRDA’s substantial financial resources.

Local resident Mohit Khade expressed skepticism about the potential improvements. “We are not sure how PMRDA can improve it further,” he commented, reflecting a mix of hope and concern among the community.

For Baramati, being included under PMRDA could lead to enhanced project planning and quicker implementation, addressing longstanding demands for better connectivity. In contrast, for Purandar, the timing is critical as the airport project is poised to attract significant investments and spur population growth.

Despite the proposal’s submission, officials clarified that the final decision lies with the state government. “The state cabinet will decide whether to approve the merger. Until then, these villages remain under the Pune collectorate,” a PMRDA official stated. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to secure consent letters for land acquisition from farmers for the proposed Purandar airport project.