In response to concerns regarding the safety and security implications of abandoned vehicles in public spaces, particularly on streets, the Maharashtra government has instructed all municipal corporations to formulate a policy for the timely disposal of such vehicles in their respective areas. Civic bodies have been mandated to establish dedicated toll-free numbers for citizens to report information on abandoned vehicles.

A notification from the state urban development department addressed to all civic bodies, including the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), emphasizes the need for each municipal corporation to devise a formalized policy for the disposal of illegally abandoned vehicles, taking into account local conditions and in consultation with local law enforcement.

The directive further calls for the establishment of toll-free telephone numbers, WhatsApp channels, and email facilities for residents to register complaints about abandoned vehicles. The notification suggests the creation of a separate complaint book for tracking complaints, with communication to the local police, and encourages civic bodies to act on anonymous complaints. The contact details for registering complaints should be publicized across various media channels.

Citing a directive from the Bombay High Court, the state government underscores the importance of addressing the issue of abandoned vehicles on city roads, as they pose obstacles to traffic flow, cleanliness, and security. In a special drive conducted by the PMC in June, 50% of the 690 seized abandoned vehicles were found to be stolen, with altered number plates and unresponsive owners who had been served notices.

An official from the PMC noted that the civic body intended to auction the seized vehicles but faced complications due to suspicions of theft. The police requested the chassis numbers, suspecting criminal involvement, and the PMC can only auction vehicles not linked to any crime. Owners who declined to pay fines to reclaim their vehicles further complicated the process.