Thane’s civic administration has tightened environmental safeguards in the Yeoor forest belt, imposing strict curbs on the transportation of construction material and intensifying action against unauthorised structures in the ecologically sensitive zone. The move follows rising concerns over habitat disruption, high-intensity lighting, and unauthorised commercial activities threatening the fragile biodiversity of the region.
Officials confirmed that the transport of building materials into Yeoor is now permitted only after securing approval from the municipal body and registering the load with the Forest Department checkpoint. The measure is aimed at ensuring complete transparency in construction-related movement and compliance with clearance norms mandated by the Urban Development Department. Entry permissions will require full disclosure of the type of material, vehicle details, and intended purpose before being allowed into the forest periphery. This is part of a coordinated effort to ensure that no unregulated commercial or private development undermines the environmental integrity of the Yeoor hills.
In parallel, the municipal corporation has escalated enforcement against illegal commercial establishments. Acting on a judicial directive, civic teams have already demolished eight out of ten unauthorised turf grounds constructed in violation of zoning and environmental guidelines. Officials revealed that a comprehensive survey of illegal commercial structures is under way, with multiple departments — including Encroachment, Urban Development, and Property Tax — conducting on-ground inspections to cross-verify the stated purpose of construction against its actual use. The enforcement drive has also been triggered by complaints from the Air Force over high-powered floodlights and unauthorised lighting in the zone, which can disrupt both ecological balance and air operations. The civic body has since warned property owners, including bungalow residents, to avoid unnecessary lighting, loudspeakers, and firecrackers. Mahavitaran has been asked to monitor high-voltage electricity supply to ensure lighting remains within permissible limits.
Historical data underscores the scale of violations: in recent years, notices have been issued to 188 individuals for environmental breaches, with 18 specific cases filed over noise pollution and firecracker use. Officials reiterated that these restrictions are not merely procedural but integral to preserving Yeoor’s sensitive ecosystem, which forms a vital green lung for Thane and the wider Mumbai Metropolitan Region. While property developers and local residents may find the tightened rules challenging, environmental experts argue that the long-term benefits far outweigh short-term inconveniences. The measures, they say, reflect a growing commitment to sustainable urban planning — one that balances development needs with ecological preservation.
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