Illegal buildings mushrooming in Mira-Bhayander, alleges NGO

A local NGO has alleged that the Mira Bhayander Municipal Corporation (MBMC) has failed to curb illegal constructions within its civic limits, leading to shrinking of roads and deterioration of open spaces.
"The way illegal constructions are mushrooming in MBMC limits, it's clear that it is being done in connivance with the municipal officers, builders and other influential people. There is no doubt that Mira-Bhayander has become the new destination for illegal buildings," Chief of Nagrik Welfare Trust, Ramashankar Tripathi, told this to reporters here today.
"In the last two decades, thousands of illegal buildings have come up in the city. Despite getting permission to construct only four floors, the builders have built unauthorised additional floors, even up to ten storeys," he said.

The Trust had filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) last year, in which it alleged that apart from its failure to stop illegal constructions, the civic body has not initiated legal action against the officers concerned.
Tripathi also criticised the MBMC over its failure to act in accordance with the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act, 1966.
"The illegal construction is leading to encroachment, deteriorating conditions of open spaces, school and colleges. Even the state government authorities issued notice to the civic administration following Governor's orders. However, despite that the civic body failed to pay heed," he alleged.