BMC, MHADA Under Fire Over Kalbadevi Violations
• Illegal Construction Blocks Public Road in Kalbadevi
• Swadeshi Market Encroachment Sparks Civic Outcry
• Sprouts SIT urges BMC and MHADA to take urgent action
Unmesh Gujarathi
Sprouts News Exclusive
Contact: +91 9322755098
Sprouts News Exclusive
Contact: +91 9322755098
Unauthorized construction by Chikhal Market Company Ltd. in Kalbadevi’s Swadeshi Market has blocked a public passage, causing distress to residents and shopkeepers. Despite multiple complaints, BMC and MHADA officials have not acted. The Sprouts News Investigation Team (SIT) demands immediate demolition to restore access and uphold civic regulations.
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Unauthorized and illegal constructions have reportedly encroached upon the public access road and common passage in Maniyar Gali, Swadeshi Market, Kalbadevi. These constructions, including walls and attic structures, allegedly fall under the jurisdiction of Chikhal Market Company Limited and are obstructing vital access for pedestrians and local businesses.
This area, falling under CTS No. 1876, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Zone-1, and C-Ward, has triggered concern among local residents and traders. Despite repeated complaints, the illegal encroachments have yet to be demolished.
Key Officials Under Scrutiny: Call for Accountability and Action
As per sources close to the Sprouts News Investigation Team (SIT), multiple officials from the Building and Factories Department have been made aware of this situation. These include:
•Dr. Sangita Hasnale (Zonal Authority, MCGM Zone-1)
•Assistant Commissioner Sanjay Ingle (C-Ward)
•Designated Officer Amol Meshram
•Assistant Engineer Navneet Jadhav
•Junior Engineer Nilesh Temburle
Additionally, the area falls under the oversight of the Mumbai Building Repairs and Reconstruction Board (MBRR Board) – Bhuleshwar Division, with Executive Engineer Mahesh Jadhav responsible for monitoring any structural violations.
According to the Cess Nos. C-1889–92, 1903, 1904–06, and 3631–34, the MHADA and MBRR Board are expected to monitor redevelopment and repair activities. However, local reports allege a failure of both civic and housing regulatory authorities to act on the rising encroachments.
Public Passage Blocked: Locals Demand Immediate Demolition of Illegal Structures
The illegal wall and attic have rendered the public passage at Maniyar Gali inaccessible, creating not only mobility issues but also fire and safety hazards. Local shopkeepers and residents are facing daily disruptions, with schoolchildren and elderly citizens particularly affected.
Eyewitness accounts confirm that the construction encroaches upon a legally recognized common road used by all stakeholders. Despite this, the structures remain untouched, allegedly due to administrative inaction and a lack of inter-departmental coordination between BMC and MHADA.
Sprouts News Investigation Team (SIT) has verified complaints from at least 12 affected business owners and residents who have filed representations demanding the road be cleared and restored for public use. Calls for demolition notices and urgent BMC action have intensified in recent weeks.
Sprouts SIT Demands Transparency from BMC and MBRR Board
The Sprouts News Investigation Team (SIT) urges MCGM authorities and MHADA’s MBRR Board to act in the interest of public welfare. With multiple departments being made aware — including Building Proposals, Ward Officials, and the BMC’s Legal Division — a prompt demolition order and action plan is the need of the hour.
This case exemplifies the urban governance gap in enforcement of building codes and maintenance of common spaces in Mumbai’s older commercial zones. If left unchecked, such negligence risks setting a dangerous precedent for other public access roads being misused for illegal gain.
Also Read: Thane Bridge: ₹3.3 Crore Shenve‑Khaire Bridge Still Useless After 5 Years.
Restoring Public Space Must Be a Priority
Restoration of the public road in Maniyar Gali is not just a civic requirement but a legal necessity. The encroachment violates building codes, public trust, and potentially fire safety regulations. BMC, MHADA, and related officials must address this growing concern and demonstrate accountability and responsiveness.
