Chief Minister Expedites Approval Process for Delayed Hinjewadi Town Planning Framework

The Maharashtra Chief Minister has directed the Urban Development Department to fast-track the approval of the stalled Maan-Mhalunge town planning scheme in Hinjewadi's thriving IT hub, officials confirmed on Monday. This directive comes as part of efforts to unlock the Pune Metropolitan Region's comprehensive development masterplan.

Administrative Bottlenecks Hampering Development Progress

Sources revealed that the town planning scheme, which was conceptualized in 2018 as an innovative "farmer-inclusive" development model, enables landowners to retain fifty percent of their developed plots rather than facing complete government acquisition. The scheme represents a departure from traditional land acquisition methods and aims to create a more collaborative approach to urban development.

Officials indicated that while technical clearances have been secured for four out of six proposed TP schemes, including the crucial Maan-Mhalunge project, the final government notification stage remains incomplete. The Manjari Khurd–Kolwadi scheme was reportedly sent back for modifications due to concerns regarding plot demarcation procedures.

Financial Implications of Delayed Clearances

The prolonged approval process has resulted in the suspension of significant funding streams, with central assistance worth ₹25 crore per scheme and an additional ₹125 crore from PMRDA remaining on hold. Development authorities emphasized that these financial resources are critical for infrastructure development and cannot be released without proper governmental clearances.

Industry experts noted that the funding delays have created a cascading effect on regional development initiatives, particularly affecting infrastructure projects that are integral to Pune's ring road connectivity and urban expansion plans.

Strategic Importance for Regional Urban Planning

Planning officials highlighted that these TP frameworks are intricately connected to the proposed 82-kilometer ring road project and encompass over 5,000 hectares of developable land. The schemes are designed to guide structured urban growth patterns and ensure systematic development of the region.

Adjacent schemes including Vadachiwadi, Handewadi, and Holkarwadi have successfully completed their technical review phases but await final administrative approval. The nearby Phursungi and Uruli Devachi schemes are reportedly in advanced stages and expected to receive notification status shortly.

Stakeholder Response and Future Outlook

Real estate developers and landowners have expressed concerns over the extended delays, citing the impact on project timelines and investment decisions. The Chief Minister's intervention is anticipated to resolve the administrative gridlock and restore momentum to Maharashtra's structured urban development initiatives.

Municipal authorities expect that the expedited approval process will pave the way for enhanced infrastructure development and contribute to the systematic growth of the Pune Metropolitan Region's real estate sector.