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Mumbai: In a major demolition drive against unauthorised constructions based on forged city title survey (CTS) maps, the BMC has razed 44 illegal structures in the Malad area over the past month. A team from the BMC's P-North ward demolished four more structures, including a resort between June 3 to 5. The civic body still has 57 unauthorised structures, including bungalows, on its demolition list, which may take another month to clear.

During a survey of 200 CTS maps, the BMC identified 101 forged structures in Madh, Erangal, Malvani, Vanrai, and Kurar areas within P North ward in Malad. Show-cause notices were issued to the unauthorised structures, and demolition began in the second week of May.

BMC machinery demolishing illegal structures in Malad during the ongoing crackdown on forged CTS maps

Recently, an unauthorised resort named 'Geneva' along with three other structures were demolished. Four structures—including two large ones measuring 6,900 sq. ft. and 2,300 sq. ft., and two smaller ones of 150 sq. ft. each were razed using two JCBs and other equipment in the presence of police and civic officials.

The BMC had set a May 31 deadline to demolish 101 illegal structures, but some owners approached the court, requiring due process before further action.

“Notices have been issued to the remaining structures, and time has been given for document submission. Verification will be done before demolition,” said Kundan Valvi, Assistant Municipal Commissioner of P North ward. However, civic sources said completing the demolition drive may take another month.

Following a court petition filed by local resident Vaibhav Thakur, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed in 2022. The SIT submitted a report confirming forgery in maps covering both Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) and non-CRZ areas. Subsequently, the state government directed the BMC to take strict action against all unauthorised structures.

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