Mumbai: Massive drive against illegal structures in Aarey Milk Colony

Illegal structures being demolished at Aarey Milk Colony

The Aarey CEO's office has taken a significant step by cracking down on over 150 illegal structures in Aarey Milk Colony, marking one of the largest operations against unauthorised constructions. According to sources within the CEO's office, the drive will be further intensified after the monsoon season. Prior to the onset of the monsoon, there was a change in leadership at the Aarey CEO's office.

In May, the Aarey CEO's office took action against approximately 125 unauthorised huts located in government premises adjacent to Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road within Aarey Milk Colony. Additionally, about 40 unauthorised huts in other areas of Aarey were demolished.

The month of June saw further action as approximately 70 shops and hawkers engaged in unauthorised business at Mayur Nagar in Aarey Milk Colony faced consequences.

An official from the Aarey CEO office stated, "To date, we have demolished more than 150 illegal structures that had sprung up in various locations within Aarey Milk Colony. Our efforts against illegal constructions will be intensified after the monsoon." mid-day has repeatedly highlighted the issue of illegal encroachments in Aarey Milk Colony and the grave threat they pose to the forest in the region.

Environmentalist Stalin D from NGO Vanashakti expressed his approval, stating, "It is encouraging to see that Aarey Milk Colony finally has a proactive CEO who is taking action against illegal constructions, which also endanger the forest and open spaces. We hope that such actions continue."

Dr Jalpesh Mehta, Founder and Chairperson of Empower Foundation, remarked, "Leopard attacks in Aarey have often involved encroachers rather than tribals. The tribals know how to coexist with wildlife. The encroachers, apart from creating garbage issues, also disturb the biodiversity and wildlife of Aarey. The dairy department's efforts to curb illegal encroachment are commendable and essential for wildlife and forest conservation. This should become a widespread and consistent activity, involving collaboration among the forest department, dairy department, MCGM, and police, to make Aarey forest an encroachment-free zone."

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Unauthorised huts demolished in May