The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) recently demolished a 50-year-old bakery in Byculla, Mumbai, occupying 500 square meters of land owned by the civic body. The bakery, which had been operating in the Kamathipura area since 1974, was allegedly hindering the redevelopment process of the area. Despite being provided an alternate location in Goregaon by the BMC, the bakery owner continued to use both premises, leading to a legal battle. The court ultimately ruled in favour of the BMC, allowing the demolition to proceed under the supervision of 25 BMC officials and 20 police officers. The civic body has already issued a letter of intent for the redevelopment of the 3,400 square meter area, which includes 117 tenants, ensuring the creation of a 22-story rehabilitation wing, a 35-storey sale tower, and a new public playground. This case sets a precedent for the BMC's renewed efforts to reclaim illegally occupied plots across Mumbai for public benefit.
A 50-year-old bakery in Byculla, occupying 500 square meters of land owned by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), was recently demolished by the civic body. The bakery had occupied 500 sq. mtrs. of Kamathipura's 4/5th lane in Byculla since 1974 and was attempting to stall the redevelopment process. The demolition was carried out under the vigilant supervision of 25 BMC officials, with the support of 20 police officers to ensure the operation proceeded without incident.
BMC officials stated that in 1968, the bakery owner was provided an alternate location in Goregaon to relocate his shop. However, since the premises were not ready, he was given a temporary plot in Byculla. When the Goregaon premises were ready, the owner took possession of that plot.
Despite being provided with a permanent place in Goregaon by BMC, the bakery continued to use both premises and legally challenged the BMC's eviction notice. The case went to the city civil court and Bombay High Court, but was ultimately dismissed, with the courts stating that the BMC can take action as per its rules and regulations. This allowed the demolition to proceed.
The civic body's estate department had already issued a letter of intent to Hi Rock Construction (P)Ltd (Kinjal Group) for the redevelopment of the 3,400 sq. mtrs. area, which includes 117 tenants. The new development will involve the creation of a 22-storey rehabilitation wing for the tenants, a 35-storey tower for sale, and a new public playground.
The demolition of the Byculla bakery underscores the BMC's determination to reclaim illegally occupied land and develop it for the greater good of the community. This case serves as a powerful example of the civic body's commitment to transforming underutilized areas into vibrant, inclusive spaces that cater to the needs of the city's residents. There are numerous such BMC plots across Mumbai that are illegally occupied, preventing their optimal utilization for the greater good of the community.
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