The residents of Pestom Sagar, a neighborhood in Chembur, Mumbai, are up in arms against the rampant encroachment and illegal activities that have eroded the civic fabric of their area. Roads No. 2 and 6 have become hotbeds for unauthorized slums, unlicensed garages, and informal garbage segregation businesses, causing severe disruption to traffic and public safety.
The situation has been exacerbated by the deteriorating condition of the bridge connecting Pestom Sagar with Garodia Nagar, Ghatkopar. This vital link for pedestrians and vehicular traffic has fallen into disrepair, making it difficult and dangerous to cross. Chairperson of the Pestom Sagar Citizens Forum, has been leading the charge against the illegal activities. Despite repeated complaints to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and even discussions with a guardian minister, no significant action has been taken to address the problem. The footpaths along Pestom Sagar Roads 4 and 6 have been rendered unusable due to the encroachment of these businesses, creating additional hazards for pedestrians. The bridge itself, which is essential for students and residents, has become a perilous endeavor due to the illegal activities taking place in its vicinity.
Thackeray emphasized that while citizens sympathize with the underprivileged, public order must be maintained. She urged the authorities to help the less privileged secure government benefits instead of allowing them to disrupt the neighborhood. She also suggested converting the disputed land into a garden or playground for the children of the area. The root of the problem lies in a long-standing land dispute over a large plot of land near the entry point of Pestom Sagar. The land has been embroiled in legal battles between a builder and the Salt Commission since 1978, creating a vacuum that has allowed illegal activities to flourish.Concerned citizen Richard Chacko lamented the state of the area, highlighting the rise of slums and crime on the disputed land. He criticized the government for failing to secure the property and address the growing problems.
The court’s inability to resolve the property dispute has not only delayed justice but has also created an environment of uncertainty. Chacko pointed out that the prolonged legal battle has allowed the encroachment to worsen. The residents of Pestom Sagar are particularly concerned for the safety of schoolchildren and pedestrians, who have no safe space to walk due to the encroachments. The area around Holy Family School has become dangerous, with people living on the footpath and no clear paths for walking. The citizens of Pestom Sagar, through their forum, continue to urge the authorities to take swift and decisive action to address the rampant encroachment and illegal activities in their neighborhood.
