Supreme Court Clears Way for Action After Dismissing Petition
Pune, May 17 – In a significant crackdown on illegal construction, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) on Saturday began demolishing 36 unauthorized bungalows erected along the Indrayani River in Chikhali village, located in the Pune district's Pimpri Chinchwad suburb.
Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh confirmed that the demolition was initiated early in the day, emphasizing the urgency due to the upcoming monsoon season, during which such operations cannot be executed.
Supreme Court Upholds NGT Order
The action follows a recent Supreme Court decision on May 4, which dismissed a petition filed by the land and bungalow owners. The petition challenged an earlier order issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which had directed the demolition of the illegal structures."With the Supreme Court’s dismissal, we are now implementing the NGT's order," Singh stated, reiterating the civic body's commitment to enforcing environmental regulations.
Bungalows Built in No-Development Zone
The River Villa project, developed by M/s Jare World and M/s V Square, had come under legal scrutiny after local environmental activist Tanaji Gambhire moved the NGT against it. He highlighted that the bungalows were constructed within the ‘blue line’ — a designated no-development zone adjacent to riverbanks meant to prevent ecological damage.Environmental Compensation of ₹5 Crore to Be Recovered
In its judgment on July 1, 2024, the NGT not only ordered the demolition of the illegal structures but also directed the PCMC to recover ₹5 crore as environmental damage compensation from the bungalow owners and associated parties.Municipal Commissioner Singh confirmed that steps are being taken to collect the ₹5 crore compensation, aligning with the tribunal's directive.
