No action on HC demolition order

BMC had won case against owners of structures built on open space

MUMBAI: The Bombay High Court had ordered the demolition of four commercial structures in Old Khar in 2005, but the civic body is still to do it. And this after Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had won the case against the owners.
 
Bhumica, Monica, Kripa Kunj, and Bir at the junction of 9th and 33rd Roads in Old Khar are boutiques selling readymade garments. All four have been built on open spaces, eating into the parking area of residents. 

“These illegal structures are packed like a can of sardines. We are forced to park our vehicles on the road, leading to traffic jams. There’s no place for the fire brigade to enter,” said Hashim Shaikh, a resident from the area. He alleged that the civic body always gave excuses for not widening the road. “There’s a big construction mafia and the BMC’s ward office is hand in glove with them. There are several cases pending in court. The structures come up during weekends.
 
Instead of issuing a 351 notice meant for encroachment, a 354(stop work) notice is issued. This is the first time that the BMC has fought sincerely and won a case in all courts of law. But, strangely, it has failed to demolish the structures,” he said.

“We are complaining against illegal structures that come in the way of road development. Why isn’t any action taken when the BMC has the powers to do so,” said Aftab Siddiqui, member, 33rd Road ALM. Deputy municipal commissioner (specials) Milind Shambharkar said, “I have instructed my officials, in writing, to raze the structures by this week.”