Bombay HC Orders Removal of Encroachments Near Charkop Pond in Kandivli

The Bombay High Court has directed the Mumbai suburban district collector to remove encroachments located next to a natural pond in Sector 7, Charkop, Kandivli (West), instructing authorities to act without favouring anyone regardless of their status.

A bench led by Acting Chief Justice Ravindra Ghuge issued the directions on August 14, emphasising that the district administration must execute the clearance independently of outside influence.

"It will be highly appreciable if the district administration initiates steps without being influenced by any person, howsoever high a position he may be occupying and ensures that the encroachment is removed without showing any favour to any person," the bench stated.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation had approached the High Court seeking permission to carry out beautification and conservation work at the natural pond, citing the presence of mangroves in the vicinity.

According to an affidavit submitted by the collector on April 13, notices have already been issued to encroachers. The administration confirmed that after reviewing documents submitted by occupants regarding their title and interest in the property, steps will be initiated within six weeks starting from October 1 to clear all encroachments from the area.

The High Court judges also directed that once all encroachments are cleared, the district administration must plant mangrove saplings across the site.