Demolition Halted in Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai's City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) has suspended the demolition of illegal religious structures on the Belapur Hills slope due to concerns over potential landslides exacerbated by ongoing heavy rains. The demolition, which targeted 30 structures covering over 3.2 lakh square feet, was initiated following a suo motu notice from the Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (MSHRC) in response to media reports highlighting the risks posed to lives and properties in the area. The demolition began with the assistance of over 100 police personnel but was abruptly halted after parts of two structures were dismantled, as the soil began to give way during the downpour. CIDCO officials acknowledged that using heavy machinery for demolition could trigger landslides, particularly given the presence of a nearby slum colony housing around 500 huts. This situation has created a dilemma for CIDCO, which is under pressure from the human rights commission to act while also facing safety concerns. Residents, including Himanshu Katkar from the Kalpataru cooperative housing society, expressed their alarm over the situation, noting that the illegal structures had been allowed to persist for nine years despite complaints dating back to 2015. CIDCO's affidavit to the MSHRC indicated that the demolition could not proceed as planned due to insufficient police security, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding the destruction of religious sites. In light of these developments, the MSHRC has requested clarity from the State Chief Secretary regarding the government's position, with the next hearing scheduled for August 26. NatConnect Foundation has urged the commission to involve the police commissioner in the proceedings to address the ongoing concerns.