Lokhandwala joggers park: HC asks BMC to ensure no further construction, encroachment at park

The notice sought from the organisations, the details of permissions granted to them and plans approved by authorities as the allegations of encroachment and illegal construction at the Joggers Park were made against them. The BMC in its notice said that if no document or permission was submitted by the respondents, necessary action would be instituted. However, the petitioners claimed the civic body failed to take any action as yet.

The respondents Celebrations Sports Club which maintains the park and Punjabi Association of Lokhandwala stated before the court that they will ensure that no further construction or encroachment will be permitted in the Joggers Park.

A division bench of Justices N M Jamdar and M M Sathaye passed orders in PIL filed by Anuj Mittal and other residents of Lokhandwala area argued through advocate Subhash Jha raising concerns over alleged encroachments.

A member of the Mangrove Protection and Conservation Monitoring Committee had also issued a notice raising a query into whether there is any damage to the mangroves or whether any construction is ongoing within 50 metres of the mangroves.

In light of this, the court said that the two respondents along with Sanjha Chulha Guru Ka Langar Trust will also ensure that there is no damage or disturbance to the mangroves as concern is expressed in that regard. It noted that “as the respondents are organising religious functions where a large number of persons attend and food is served, it is equally their responsibility to maintain hygiene and not litter garbage in public places and in the park.”

“If such activities are taking place, then the BMC, on whom we have placed the responsibility, will ensure that necessary action is taken and all rules and regulations are followed by the respondents,” the bench added.