The Bombay High Court has directed the NMMC to conduct a comprehensive survey of illegal constructions within the civic body’s jurisdiction and take necessary action. NMMC has been asked to complete the survey within four months.

The orders were issued during a hearing on a public interest litigation (PIL) about unauthorized structures and a contempt plea alleging NMMC had failed to comply with the 2018 directives regarding illegal constructions.

On October 23, 2024, the court had reprimanded NMMC for unchecked urbanisation and inadequate action against nearly 10,000 illegal structures in Navi Mumbai. Stressing that they ‘cannot turn a blind eye’, to the rampant violations and urged authorities to act swiftly against offenders.

The court also referred to Section 52A of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act, which allows the government to regularise structures built before December 31, 2015. However, constructions raised after this date do not qualify for legalization and must be dealt with accordingly.

According to an NMMC report submitted on January 31, 2024, there were 6,565 illegal structures in Navi Mumbai. Notices had been issued under Sections 53 and 54 of the MRTP Act to 3,214 and 2,863 buildings, respectively. Additionally, partial demolitions were carried out on 3,096 structures, and criminal proceedings were initiated against 1,044 cases.

During a recent hearing, Anil Anturkar, a senior advocate, representing NMMC, emphasized that the corporation, as a statutory body, was obligated to act against unauthorized developments.

The court directed NMMC to complete the survey within four months and ensure compliance with Supreme Court guidelines issued in November 2024 while carrying out demolitions. It also clarified that affected individuals could seek legal remedies, including claims under the Government Resolution (GR) for project affected persons.