Ulhas Riverbed Filling: Badlapur Property Seized Over ₹10.16 Crore Fine
A property belonging to Satsang Vihar in Badlapur has been seized by the revenue department after the institution allegedly failed to pay a ₹10.16 crore fine imposed over unauthorised soil and stone filling in the Ulhas riverbed, according to a report by Loksatta – Thane published on September 9, 2026.
The action was taken at Satsang Vihar’s premises in the Hendrepada area of Badlapur West. Revenue officials placed a notice at the institution’s main entrance stating that the property was in the possession of the Maharashtra government. The seizure followed the expiry of the deadline set for payment of the fine imposed by the Ambarnath tehsildar, the report said.
Satsang Vihar owns land beside the Ulhas river near Bharat College, where it conducts religious activities. The report said that, several months earlier, the institution began placing soil and stones on the land and in the adjoining riverbed, stating that the work was intended to protect its property. The filling allegedly extended into the natural river channel.
According to the report, the work reduced the width of the Ulhas river’s natural course and increased concerns about flooding in the surrounding area. Environmental activists and social organisations had submitted complaints to the revenue department and local administration over the activity.
Following those complaints, the Ambarnath tehsil office inspected the location and prepared a panchnama, or official inspection record. The inspection reportedly found that Satsang Vihar had deposited 8,912 brass of soil, 196 brass of stone and 83 brass of stone powder in the riverbed. The material is classified as minor mineral under the applicable administrative process.
The report said the filling was carried out over several days with the help of three poclain machines. It also stated that the institution had not obtained permission from the government or the mining department for the activity. The reported quantities formed the basis of the administrative action and the fine imposed by the tehsildar.
The seizure brings the issue beyond a dispute over land protection and into the administration of river corridors and minor-mineral use. Any narrowing or obstruction of a river channel can affect the movement of water during heavy rainfall, although the report did not provide an independent assessment of the specific flood impact at the site.
The action has been taken by the revenue department after the reported non-payment of the fine. The notice displayed at the entrance identifies the seized property as being under the control of the Maharashtra government. The next administrative steps, including any proceedings concerning the deposited material or restoration of the riverbed, were not specified in the report.
