The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has removed encroachments from a plot of land reserved for a municipal school and recreational ground in the Meghwadi-Lalbaug-Parel area, paving the way for the development of long-pending public amenities.
The demolition drive, carried out by the civic body's F-South Ward, marks the culmination of a 12-year effort to reclaim the land. The 7,872-square-metre plot has been reserved under the Development Plan (DP) 2034 for a municipal school and a recreational ground that is expected to benefit more than 50,000 residents of Lalbaug, Parel, Kalachowki and nearby areas.
According to civic officials, 13 structures had occupied a portion of the reserved land. As part of the rehabilitation process, eligible occupants were offered either alternative accommodation or monetary compensation in accordance with BMC policy. Notices were issued before the demolition exercise was undertaken.
In the first phase of the operation, seven structures were demolished, while action against the remaining encroachments is expected to follow shortly. The drive was carried out with the support of civic officials, labourers, heavy machinery and police personnel to ensure smooth execution.
Civic authorities said the reclaimed land will now be developed into a municipal school and recreational ground, addressing the long-standing demand for educational and open-space facilities in the densely populated neighbourhood. The project is expected to provide much-needed recreational infrastructure and improve the quality of life for local residents.
Also Read: Marine Drive road widening project put on hold - Here's why