Kapil Sharma row: Locality dotted with illegal structures

Kapil Sharma row: Activists say that there are about 199 bungalows in the region. A majority of these have illegal extensions.

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The bungalow in Andheri. (Source: Express Photo by Dilip Kagda)

The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Nagar in Andheri West where comedian Kapil Sharma’s illegal structure is situated has several other structures built in contravention to development control regulations, confirmed civic officials. A number of these are host studios, film production houses, and offices of filmstars, sources further confirmed.

In 2009, the Bombay High Court had ordered a demolition of 4,362 unauthorised structures or illegal extensions in the colony, which came up on land owned by the Maharashtra Housing And Area Development Authority, following which the civic body carried out a massive demolition drive razing most of these around 2011.

But locals say many of these had been re-erected subsequently. Ironically, the plot was earmarked for residential activity, but now has a dominant commercial character to it.

“There are about 199 bungalows in the region. A majority of these have illegal extensions. While civic officials served several notices to such structures in the past, in most cases the demolition action is stayed,” said local activist Suresh Soni. Another resident Unmesh Patole echoed Soni’s views. In most cases, while a building permission for construction of a ground floor structure exists, people have added unauthorised floors, civic officials said.

Vallabh Ozarkar

Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With more than nine years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read More

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