Don’t let illegal constructions flourish, take strict action

Water lashes against some of the huts on the boundary

Worli locals, inhabitants of Worli village and Koliwada at the edge of the Seaface have been complaining about illegal hutments that seem to be increasing on the boundary of the enclave. These huts, literally, jut out into the sea and a report highlighting this shows pictures of waves lashing against what they say are illegal construction.

The local corporator, in this paper's report has agreed too, that there are illegal constructions and added her voice to the locals that they should be demolished.

Pictures show clear danger as these huts are simply too close to the sea, some literally extending into it. In case of extremely rough weather, cyclonic conditions that we have and are witnessing, they can be washed into the water, that is a very real possibility.

Illegal extensions and constructions are a festering problem in the city. They follow a familiar pattern. A local strongman, with his gang, or alone, a figure of intimidation for others, starts building some illegal structures. This is either for himself or for commercial gain. These are sold or rented out. Cursory demolitions do happen if complaints are filed, that too with great reluctance since there is such an atmosphere of fear that common persons are told not to get involved.

This may not happen in every instance, but we do see such things occur and unfortunately, more often than not. In the Seaface case too, demolitions have happened only to have the huts being rebuilt in some time.

Take action against these supposed strongmen who begin these activities secure in the knowledge of their ‘connections'. When action is taken against illegalities it should be final and the status quo maintained. When structures come back it is enervating to keep a vigil all the time, and it is not the citizen's duty to do so. Right this wrong, soon.