Thane's Civic Commissioner, Abhijit Bangar, has issued a strong warning to municipal staff and a private electricity provider regarding their accountability in facilitating water and power connections to illegal construction projects in Kalwa, Mumbra, and Diva. This move comes in response to discussions surrounding the issue of illegal constructions in Thane, particularly in its suburbs. The warning emphasizes adherence to state regulations and court directives that prohibit essential facilities for unauthorized structures. The civic administration has cautioned its staff and alerted the Torrent power company about their responsibilities in this regard, aiming to prevent a recurrence of incidents like the Lucky compound incident.
Thane's Civic Commissioner, Abhijit Bangar, has issued a stern warning concerning water and power connections to illegal construction projects in Kalwa, Mumbra, and Diva. This proactive stance follows recent discussions and concerns surrounding the pervasive issue of illegal constructions, particularly within Thane city and its suburban areas.
The warning carries significant weight, as it encompasses both municipal staff and a private electricity provider. Bangar has emphasized that those found to have facilitated water and power connections to ongoing illegal construction projects will be held accountable for their actions.
This matter came to the forefront during a district planning committee meeting, where it garnered strong reactions from influential figures, including Union Minister and BJP leader Kapil Patil and Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde, among others. Notably, the NCP and Shiv Sena (UBT) also issued warnings, making it clear that the civic administration would be held responsible if a situation similar to the Lucky compound incident were to recur.
Civic Commissioner Abhijit Bangar underscored the importance of adhering to both state regulations and court directives, which unequivocally mandate refraining from providing essential facilities to illegal structures. There have been instances where power and water connections were extended to certain ongoing illegal constructions or those nearing completion.
To address this issue comprehensively, the civic administration has taken several steps. First and foremost, they have cautioned their staff about the seriousness of the matter and the potential disciplinary actions they may face, including suspension. This move serves as a clear deterrent to municipal employees who may be tempted to facilitate such unauthorized activities.
Additionally, the administration has engaged with the Torrent power company, signalling the electricity provider's responsibility in this matter. This communication emphasizes that the power company should not provide connections to structures that lack the necessary legal approvals and clearances.
This proactive stance by Thane's Civic Commissioner reflects a commitment to tackling the long-standing problem of illegal constructions that pose significant challenges to urban planning and safety. By holding both municipal staff and private service providers accountable, the aim is to deter illegal construction activities and ensure that essential utilities are not extended to unauthorized structures.
In conclusion, Thane's Civic Commissioner's warning regarding water and power connections to illegal constructions is a proactive measure aimed at curbing this persistent issue. It underscores the importance of adhering to regulations and directives while emphasizing the consequences for those who enable illegal construction activities. This concerted effort involving civic authorities and private service providers seeks to promote responsible urban development and enhance safety within the district.