“We are helpless and cannot do anything immediately to stop illegal constructions,” Indranil Naik, Maharashtra state industry minister, said commenting about the illegal construction activity in MIDC industrial area.

The minister earlier conducted an on-site inspection of the area and inspected unauthorized constructions at Shil, Khardi, Khan Compound, and Mahape Road.

The visit was in response to a calling attention motion raised in the Maharashtra Legislative Council by MLCs Dheeraj Lingade and Niranjan Davkhare. Lingade and Niranjan Davkhare also attended the minister during his inspection.

The minister expressed helpless and emphasised the need for policy change. “If we take action on illegal encroachment, building or houses are constructed in the same area within no time.”

Naik emphasized the need for a coordinated effort between MIDC, revenue, forest department, municipal corporation, and the Land Records Office. He directed that a joint survey be conducted, boundaries be determined, and immediate action be taken against unauthorized constructions.

During the visit, Minister Naik held discussions with department officials concerned regarding complaints about unauthorized constructions. He reviewed legal measures that could be taken to address these issues.

He stated that unauthorized constructions on MIDC land should not be permitted. However, he expressed willingness to make decisions regarding industrial matters, while other issues would require collaboration with the concerned departments. A final decision will be taken after receiving a legal report from the relevant authorities, the minister said.