Rapid urbanisation across Pune’s eastern suburbs has led to a significant increase in applications seeking No Objection Certificates (NoCs) for construction around Lohegaon Air Force Station, highlighting the growing challenge of balancing urban development with aviation and operational safety.
According to data available with the Indian Air Force (IAF), the number of construction-related NoC applications increased from 1,062 in 2020 to 1,401 in 2025. This represents a rise of nearly 32% over a five-year period and reflects the accelerating pace of development around the strategically important airbase.
Lohegaon Air Force Station shares airspace with civilian operations at Pune Airport and is surrounded by rapidly expanding residential and commercial areas. As new housing projects, redevelopment initiatives and infrastructure works increase in the region, more construction proposals are required to undergo scrutiny by defence authorities.
The primary objective of the NoC process is to ensure that proposed structures comply with prescribed height restrictions and obstacle limitation requirements around the airfield. Such regulations are intended to prevent buildings and other structures from creating potential hazards for aircraft operating from the military and civilian airfield.
Officials said every construction proposal in the regulated area is examined carefully to determine whether the proposed height and location could affect flight operations. The process becomes particularly important around an operational airbase where military aircraft routinely conduct take-offs, landings and other flying activities.
Defence Public Relations Officer Ankush Chavan attributed the rise in applications to Pune’s rapid urban expansion, particularly in the Lohegaon region. He said the increase in redevelopment projects, residential construction and infrastructure activity has naturally resulted in a higher number of proposals requiring defence clearance.
Chavan emphasised that while urban development around Pune is inevitable, construction activity must continue to comply with established aviation safety requirements. He said proposals are carefully assessed to ensure that the operational requirements of Lohegaon Air Force Station and flight safety are not compromised.
The increase in NoC applications also reflects the pressure created by Pune’s expanding urban footprint. Areas that were previously characterised by relatively low-density development are increasingly witnessing residential complexes, commercial establishments and other infrastructure projects, increasing the need for closer coordination between civilian authorities and defence establishments.
For developers and property owners, obtaining the required NoC is an important part of the approval process for construction falling within regulated areas around the airfield. Compliance with height and other safety restrictions helps ensure that urban development does not interfere with aircraft operations.
Officials expect the demand for construction clearances to remain elevated as Pune’s eastern periphery continues to expand. The trend is likely to require sustained coordination between municipal authorities, planning agencies, developers and the Indian Air Force.
The situation highlights the broader challenge faced by rapidly growing cities that have operational military installations within or adjacent to expanding urban areas. In Pune, maintaining a balance between infrastructure development and the safety requirements of Lohegaon Air Force Station will remain important as the city’s eastern suburbs continue to urbanise.
