PMRDA’s auction of public utility land triggers backlash

PMRDA published details of public sale on its website on July 21; process will conclude by Aug 10

- Siddharth Gadkari

The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has launched an auction of 35 public amenity plots across key areas in Khed, Haveli, Maval, and Mulshi talukas, with a total base value estimated at ₹91 crore. However, the move has come under fire from civic activists, who argue that the targeted localities still lack essential infrastructure such as drinking water supply, primary healthcare centres, police chowkies, public gardens, and playgrounds.

PMRDA is asking for a 5% earnest money deposit (EMD) for each plot, with amounts ranging from ₹84,000 to ₹25 lakh, depending on the plot's location and size.

Civic activists have expressed concern over the auction of land reserved for public amenities in areas where basic civic services remain underdeveloped.