CIDCO Undertakes Major Demolition Drive Against Illegal Shrines on Belapur Hill

The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) has initiated a robust demolition drive to dismantle approximately 30 illegal religious structures situated on the vulnerable slopes of Belapur Hill in Navi Mumbai.

This action follows directives from the Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (MSHRC) after concerns were raised regarding environmental violations and potential landslide hazards posed by these unauthorized constructions. Under heavy police security, CIDCO commenced operations by demolishing two structures, with plans to clear the remaining establishments soon, contingent upon weather conditions. The intervention by MSHRC was prompted by public outcry, as highlighted in a report by The Indian Express, stressing the risks these structures pose to both residents and properties below the hill.

An RTI inquiry conducted by NatConnect Foundation revealed that these illegal temples collectively occupy an area of 2,30,000 square feet on Belapur Hill. The issue dates back to 2015 when the Kalpataru Cooperative Housing Society first raised concerns with CIDCO, citing risks of landslides exacerbated by unauthorized construction activities and deforestation. Despite assurances from CIDCO to address the issue, delays ensued, attributed in part to challenges in obtaining adequate police security for the demolition process. Affidavits filed by CIDCO and relevant government departments clarified these delays, leading to the eventual intervention and directives from MSHRC to expedite action. CIDCO’s current efforts involve collaboration with the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation to cut off water supply and Maha discom to disconnect power connections to the illegal structures, further reinforcing their stance against unauthorized encroachments.

Residents of CBD Belapur have expressed relief at CIDCO’s proactive stance, emphasizing the importance of adhering to regulatory norms while respecting environmental concerns. They underscored that while they support religious structures, adherence to legal and environmental guidelines is paramount for ensuring community safety and environmental sustainability. The situation at Kalpataru Cooperative Housing Society remains critical, with activists warning of heightened landslide risks due to soil destabilization caused by construction and tree clearance activities on Belapur Hill. Instances of landslides, including one that damaged a retaining wall, have underscored the urgency of CIDCO’s demolition efforts to mitigate further environmental degradation and safeguard local communities. CIDCO’s ongoing campaign underscores its commitment to upholding legal standards and environmental sustainability while addressing community concerns and ensuring public safety in Navi Mumbai’s evolving landscape.