MUMBAI: The BMC cracked down on five unauthorized multi-storey buildings in Versova, which had come up in an ecologically sensitive marshland area within the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ).

The civic body stated that despite repeated notices from the municipal administration instructing the concerned parties to remove the constructions, no action was taken by them. “Given the potential threat to life due to the presence of these structures in a marshy zone, the BMC carried out the demolition,” said a civic official. The unauthorized buildings identified included: These buildings had been constructed over the past year without obtaining any permission from the municipal authorities. Based on these findings, demolition was undertaken using 35 hand breakers, 8 gas cutters, and 8 generators. Around 80 BMC officers and staff were deployed for the operation, along with adequate police protection. Meanwhile, the BMC has stated that another 35 unauthorized buildings have been constructed within the Coastal Regulation Zone in the Versova area. The administration has clarified that these structures will also be removed over the next few days as part of the same drive.