BMC, residents inspect Powai layout; civic violations alleged

Mumbai: A joint inspection by BMC officials and office bearers of various societies of a sector in a Powai township has shown up violations of civic rules, including stretches of pavements built along Development Plan (DP) and access roads, and internal roads being shown as recreation grounds (RGs) for layout approval, alleged residents. Additionally, there was alleged truncating of RGs, utilising such grounds for common public facilities, construction of a concrete structure meant for another sector on an RG, and a generator set was placed on it.
The residents of Hiranandani Gardens Sector 9 have demanded that a detailed survey be carried out by the BMC to identify the shortfall in the RGs provided in their sector. They also want all flat purchasers to be given "unhindered access" to adequately developed RGs at the earliest, along with remedial action for all other violations and a review of the utilisation of floor space index (FSI) and transfer of development rights (TDR).
Residents alleged the developer did not provide sufficient RGs in Sector 9, and housing societies in the sector had complained to the BMC about it three months ago.
An office bearer of a society said, "While we were scrutinising official records and documents to seek conveyance, we found these violations. The observations were made after a visual inspection/survey was carried out using maps obtained under RTI from BMC by office bearers of various societies along with BMC officials. The BMC has sought a response from the developer. We are awaiting further action, including official measurements of the layout by the BMC."
A Hiranandani group spokesperson said, "Violations have been committed by members across various buildings and numerous societies. The internal roads, gardens, and surrounding areas were restructured and redeveloped based on requests from society members, with the primary aim of enhancing their convenience. These changes have been in use and enjoyed by the members for over 20 years."
After the April 17 inspection, the letter by housing societies to the BMC deputy chief engineer (building proposal) eastern suburbs alleged although construction was on since 2001 and full OC issued for 6 of the proposed 7 buildings, the developer is yet to construct a proper boundary wall around the amalgamated plot pertaining to Sector 9. Besides, most RGs shown on the layout plan are smaller, access to parking was included in an RG, and DP roads have eaten into RGs at intersections, it alleged. Despite repeated attempts, TOI could not reach BMC deputy chief engineer (building proposal) eastern suburbs for comment.