Panvel: The state government has granted administrative approval for the construction of the second and third floors of the New Civil Code Court Building in Panvel. The expansion, set to cost Rs. 17.31 crore, is expected to alleviate current space constraints and improve facilities for legal professionals and the public.

The approval follows persistent efforts by MLA Prashant Thakur and the Panvel Lawyers Association, who advocated for the additional floors to address the overcrowding issues in the existing building. MLA Thakur had made an urgent request to Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, highlighting the challenges faced due to inadequate court space and facilities.

The new building, which currently houses a total of 15 courts, including Civil Courts, First Class Magistrate Courts, Senior Civil Code Court, District and High Sessions Courts, and a POSCO Court, only has eight court halls spread over the ground and one additional floor. The lack of adequate courtrooms has led to a temporary arrangement, with some courts operating from makeshift spaces.

The expansion will provide much-needed additional courtroom space and amenities, significantly benefiting lawyers, litigants, and other stakeholders. The new floors will help address the current overcrowding issue and improve the efficiency of court operations.

The Panvel Lawyers Association, led by President Adv. Manoj Bhujbal, has expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar for their support. MLA Prashant Thakur has also congratulated the association and its office bearers for their successful efforts in securing the necessary funding and approval for the project.