The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has issued notices to the proprietors of 60 unauthorised hoardings erected on its properties. This action follows the catastrophic incident in Ghatkopar on May 13, where a hoarding collapse led to 17 fatalities and left 75 individuals injured during a storm.
An official from MHADA revealed that out of the 62 hoardings inspected, 60 were installed without the requisite No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the authority. Consequently, MHADA has mandated the immediate removal of these illegal structures. Failure to comply will prompt enforced dismantling, executed in collaboration with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
The BMC, echoing MHADA’s stance, has issued show-cause notices to advertisers, instructing them to present MHADA’s NOC within a stipulated timeframe. Non-compliance will result in the revocation of advertising permits and potential legal action under the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act of 1888. This stringent measure aims to ensure adherence to safety regulations and prevent future mishaps.
In a joint operation, MHADA and the BMC have already dismantled an unauthorised hoarding at the Shubh Jeevan Cooperative Housing Society in Juhu Vile Parle. This initiative aligns with directives from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who has called for the eradication of illegal hoardings across Mumbai.
The urgency of this crackdown is underscored by the Ghatkopar tragedy, which highlighted the dangers posed by unauthorised hoardings. The hoarding that collapsed had been illegally placed, and its fall during the storm led to devastating consequences for those in its vicinity.
MHADA’s proactive stance serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of regulatory compliance in urban infrastructure. The authority’s swift action reflects its commitment to public safety and adherence to legal frameworks governing property use.
This enforcement drive is expected to set a precedent for stringent monitoring and regulation of hoardings, ensuring that advertisers and property owners adhere to the necessary safety and legal standards. By taking a firm stand against unauthorised installations, MHADA aims to prevent such tragedies and safeguard the well-being of Mumbai’s residents.
As Mumbai grapples with the aftermath of the Ghatkopar incident, the concerted efforts of MHADA and the BMC signify a robust approach to urban governance. The removal of illegal hoardings not only addresses immediate safety concerns but also reinforces the city’s regulatory mechanisms, promoting a safer and more orderly urban environment
