CIDCO’s Inaction on Encroachment Triggers Massive Protest in Navi Mumbai
Hundreds of residents in Navi Mumbai staged a massive protest on Sunday morning, forming a human chain to highlight the inaction of authorities against illegal encroachments on the landslide-prone slopes of Belapur Hill. The protest, which took place at CBD Belapur, was sparked by growing concerns over the unchecked construction of religious structures despite multiple judicial and government directives for their removal.
According to NatConnect Foundation, a civic watchdog, at least 30 religious structures have been illegally constructed on Belapur Hill, occupying approximately 2.3 lakh square feet of land. The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), the region’s planning authority, has previously acknowledged the illegality of these constructions and issued demolition notices. However, despite a Supreme Court order from 2009 banning the construction of temples, mosques, churches, and gurudwaras on public land, no substantial action has been taken. Environmentalists and local activists warn that the continued encroachments pose a serious safety hazard.
“We fear an Irshalwadi-type disaster,” said Himanshu Katkar, a protester, referring to the devastating landslide in Raigad that buried an entire village. He highlighted that some of the structures on Belapur Hill include large halls capable of accommodating over 1,500 people, putting devotees at serious risk in the event of a landslide. The protesters carried placards with messages such as ‘Save Belapur Hills’, ‘Relocate Temples’, and ‘Protect Our Green Cover’. Many raised concerns about deforestation on the hill and the apparent apathy of CIDCO officials. Residents have been lodging complaints for over a decade, yet encroachments continue to expand.
“We are not against temples or gowshalas, but they should be built in safer locations,” said Amrita Karnavat, a local businesswoman. “Over the years, much of the greenery has been destroyed, and despite numerous complaints, no authority is taking action.” Several activists pointed out that CIDCO’s headquarters, located in Belapur, has a clear view of the destruction unfolding on the hill. RTI activist Sudhir Dani expressed shock at CIDCO’s continued inaction, noting that even court and government directives have failed to spur a response. The Maharashtra Human Rights Commission (MSHRC) had previously directed CIDCO to demolish these structures, and the state’s Urban Development Department recently issued a reminder to the planning body. However, with no visible progress, NatConnect has now warned of a contempt petition against CIDCO and other government agencies for disregarding judicial pronouncements.
As the protest concluded, ex-serviceman Col. Benjamin voiced a sentiment echoed by many “We will not allow our forests to be destroyed for vested interests. This protest is just the beginning.” Residents are now demanding immediate intervention from the state government and the courts to prevent further environmental degradation and ensure the safety of those living in the vicinity of Belapur Hill.
