Encroachments along a privately owned road in Powai, which is being used by the public near a school, are set to be removed after an action plan was sought by the Bombay High Court. The matter was placed before a division bench, where concerns regarding safety and obstruction were examined and a structured response from the civic body was requested.
The issue was brought to judicial attention after apprehensions were raised about hutments and temporary structures blocking access to an educational institution in the locality. It was highlighted that the presence of such encroachments had created safety risks for students, particularly those in pre-primary classes, as well as for parents visiting the school premises. The situation was described as both an access concern and a public safety issue.
In response to earlier directions, an affidavit was submitted by the municipal administration clarifying the legal and ownership status of the disputed stretch. It was explained that the road, though referred to as a 90-foot-wide East Avenue Road and recognised under planning regulations, has not been formally handed over to the civic authority. Procedural requirements for transfer were stated to have remained incomplete since 2020, resulting in possession not being taken over.
Allegations were made that while adjoining commercially valuable plots had been secured by the landowner following earlier demolition drives, the non-buildable road portion had been left unprotected. Fresh encroachments were subsequently allowed to emerge along the stretch. It was further stated that the road had been constructed without mandatory clearances from municipal departments and was lacking infrastructure compliant with civic standards, including storm-water drainage systems and approved street lighting.
Although the road has been operationally used by the public and functions as a public access route, it was underlined that it is not recognised as a public road under regulatory norms. The distinction between usage and formal designation was emphasised in the affidavit.
Preliminary steps have already been undertaken, including the removal of mobile toilets and discontinuation of water tanker services previously provided at the site. It has been indicated that statutory notices will be issued under relevant provisions before demolition of encroachments is carried out. Liberty has also been sought to recover demolition expenses from the developer responsible for the land.
The court clarified that it was not assuming administrative authority but was only seeking a clear roadmap for action. Further proceedings in the matter have been scheduled, during which compliance and progress are expected to be reviewed.