Pune: NGT Orders PCMC to Demolish Illegal Bungalows And Other Constructions in Indrayani River’s Floodline
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune, 1st July 2024: In a significant environmental ruling, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) to demolish 29 bungalows and other structures built illegally within the floodline of the Indrayani River in Chikhali. The ruling comes as part of the ongoing dispute over the “River Villa” project, where constructions were carried out without proper permissions.
The project, located near River Residency in Chikhali, involved residential bungalow plots developed by M/s. Jare World and M/s. V. Square, despite being situated in a restricted area marked by the blue flood line of the Indrayani River.
NGT’s Western bench, presided by Justice Dinesh Kumar Singh and expert member Dr. Vijay Kulkarni, issued a strict order mandating PCMC to complete the demolition of these illegal constructions within six months from the date of the judgment. Additionally, PCMC has been instructed to collect Environmental Damage Compensation (EDC) totaling Rs. 5 Crores from the bungalow owners and others involved in the unauthorized constructions. The amount is based on calculations by a Joint Committee and will be proportionately levied according to plot area.
The tribunal’s decision stems from a petition filed in 2020 by Tanaji Balasaheb Gambhire, a resident of Shukrawar Peth, Pune. His plea highlighted the environmental concerns and illegalities associated with the River Villa project. Following the petition, a joint committee was formed to investigate the site, confirming the presence of unauthorized constructions in violation of environmental norms.
In its verdict, the NGT criticized PCMC for its failure to take timely action despite issuing notices to the bungalow owners and other respondents involved. The tribunal emphasized the need for strict enforcement of environmental regulations to protect flood-prone areas and maintain ecological balance.
PCMC is now required to submit a compliance report to the NGT’s registry within one month after the demolition deadline expires, detailing the execution of the tribunal’s directives.
The bungalow owners had pleaded innocence claiming they had legally purchased plots and thereafter only, they have raised constructions. Therefore, they should not be penalized by ordering demolition.
