Panel calls for removal of illegal structures in Belapur

Navi Mumbai's Cidco is under fire for not taking action against illegal religious structures on Belapur Hill. These structures are built in a zone that is prone to landslides. A committee from the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) is urging Cidco to remove them quickly. The demand comes after both the Supreme Court and the Bombay High Court issued guidelines about illegal constructions. Activists from NatConnect Foundation have warned that these structures could be dangerous, especially with the upcoming monsoon season. They highlighted the hill's increased risk of landslides due to heavy deforestation for building projects. Dr. Kailas Shinde, the NMMC commissioner, said that Cidco and NMMC will work together to remove these illegal structures. He added that since the structures are within NMMC's area, the local panel has the authority to oversee their removal. Cidco has been asked to start this action right away.