Navi Mumbai: The state govt has instructed the City and Industrial Development Corporation (Cidco) to address encroachments by religious structures (temples) on the landslide-susceptible Belapur Hills, whilst allowing environmental activists to challenge the city planner’s lack of response. This action follows NatConnect Foundation’s grievance regarding Cidco‘s alleged delay in addressing illegal structures covering over 2.3 lakh square feet, violating the Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (MSHRC) directive issued over six months ago.
The timing is crucial due to upcoming religious events lined up on the hills. According to documents submitted to MSHRC, Cidco previously issued demolition notices to such illegal structures. Cidco confirmed serving notices to as many as 29 trusts on Belapur Hills and one on Parsik Hill, expressing readiness to act in accordance with Supreme Court guidelines.
The urban development department (UDD) responded to NatConnect director B N Kumar’s right to information (RTI) query regarding progress following the MSHRC directive to Cidco and Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) concerning unauthorised religious structures in public spaces.
Initially, UDD notified about reminding both organisations of the MSHRC’s order. Kumar subsequently filed an appeal, citing inaction from both bodies, expressing concerns about potential monsoon-related landslides. “I even personally met top officials from Cidco and NMMC, but no action is seen on the ground,” said Kumar.
The UDD joint secretary Subrao Shinde heard Kumar’s case and issued a signed order allowing formal complaint submission to the govt. Simultaneously, Shinde directed Cidco to address Kumar’s concerns and inform him accordingly. MSHRC previously took suo motu notice of media coverage about the #SaveBelapurHills campaign highlighting landslide risks to temples, worshippers, and nearby residents.
Housing societies below the hills have experienced landslides affecting retaining walls. Local activist Kapil Kulkarni warns of an increased risk due to loose soil from tree removal for encroachments. Activists emphasise their respect for religious structures whilst advocating safer locations away from unstable hills. A Cidco official mentioned approaching an NMMC-level committee to take a call for action. NMMC commissioner Kailas Shinde stated, “We will have to look into the factual aspects.”