BMC demolishes illegal extensions of South Mumbai eateries

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Thursday demolished illegal extensions of popular eating joints on Veer Nariman Road in Churchgate. The restaurants had not only covered the open spaces outside their premises, which are to be kept compulsorily open, but were also using the space for business. The action comes after a suo motu order of the state Lokayukta.

The BMC had served 48-hour notices to the eateries on June 20. While Samrat restaurant had vacated the open space on its own, civic officials had to carry out demolition of the extensions of Shiv Sagar restaurant, Salt Water Café and Chopsticks. Notices were also served to Kamling, Gaylords and Pizza by the Bay, but they acquired a stay from court.

"The eateries were asked to restore the compulsory open space as per the approved plan in the stipulated time given in the notice or face action under section 351 of the MMC Act. It was made clear in the notice that we would demolish the extensions without any further intimation. Open space is mandatory for the safety of those residing in the vicinity," said a civic official.

Assistant municipal commissioner from A ward Kiran Dighavkar said restaurants on the pretext of putting up a monsoon shed keep the area covered throughout the year and carry out business. "We cannot regularise these spaces and allow restaurants to carry out business illegally," said Dighavkar.