High Court Orders PMC to Clear Walkways, Relocate 3,500+ DPs
Pune, April 10, 2025 : In a major push for pedestrian safety, the Bombay High Court has directed the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to remove all Distribution Panels (DPs) obstructing footpaths across the city. The relocation, estimated to cost over ₹300 crore, will affect more than 3,500 DPs currently occupying walkways.
Why the Move?
- Pedestrian Hazard: DPs—electrical control boxes, transformers, and traffic signal panels—force walkers onto roads, risking accidents.
- Court’s Stand: The HC bench of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice M.S. Karnik ruled that PMC must ensure unhindered footpaths as part of its civic duty.
- PIL Background : Activist Kaneez Sukhrani filed the petition in 2022, citing neglect of pedestrian rights.
Relocation Challenges
- Space Crunch : Finding alternative sites, especially in crowded areas, is tough.
- Costly Shift: Moving a single DP costs ₹1-3 lakh, while transformers need ₹ 7-8 lakh each.
- Stakeholders Involved : PMC, power firms, police, and telecom companies own these DPs.
By the Numbers
| Type of DP | Count |
|-------------------------- | -------|
| Power Distribution Panels| 2,500 |
| Transformers | 100 |
| Streetlight Control Units | 2,500 |
| Traffic Signal Panels | 300 |
What’s Next?
- PMC’s *Electricity & Roads Departments are drafting a relocation plan.
- Notices will be sent to power companies to act on the court order.
- Funds allocation and timeline remain unclear.
Activist’s Take:
"Footpaths are for pedestrians, not utilities. The HC order is a win for public safety."
— Kaneez Sukhrani, Petitioner
PMC’s Response:
"We’re assessing feasibility. Relocating DPs without disrupting power supply is key."
— Manisha Shekatkar, Chief Engineer (Electricity), PMC
The Big Picture
The ruling highlights Pune’s urban planning flaws, where infrastructure often overrides pedestrian needs. With ₹300 crore at stake, the PMC’s execution will be closely watched.
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