The Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) is set to demolish 47 of the 65 illegal buildings constructed by developers using forged RERA certificates. This action, following a Bombay High Court order, is expected to impact around 6,500 residents. The demolitions are part of a larger crackdown on construction fraud that has been under investigation since last year.
KDMC officials have outlined the process for these demolitions, starting with the disconnection of electricity and water supplies to the buildings, before proceeding with the demolition. This precaution is being taken due to the fact that people currently reside in these buildings. Earlier, KDMC had already demolished 10 of the 65 illegal structures, though five buildings were exempt due to their location within MIDC limits, and a couple of others had duplicate names or had not been built. The entire scam came to light last year when social worker and architect Sandeep Patil uncovered it and filed a complaint with KDMC. However, after inaction from the civic body, Patil took the matter to the Bombay High Court, which eventually ordered the demolitions. Subsequently, KDMC filed two FIRs against the builders involved, and the Thane police formed a special investigation team (SIT), which arrested 15 individuals, including builders and others implicated in the fraudulent activities.
While KDMC has already demolished some buildings, the pace of action has been slow due to factors such as the code of conduct for the Lok Sabha and assembly elections, as well as the monsoon season. Now, with the rains subsiding and the election codes lifted, KDMC has given the go-ahead to disconnect utilities and proceed with demolitions. KDMC Commissioner Indurani Jakhar stated that a large police presence would ensure security during the process. However, residents living in these buildings have expressed frustration and concern over the demolition. Many feel they have been cheated, having purchased flats after verifying the RERA certificates and permissions provided by the builders. They are calling for accountability from KDMC, RERA officials, and the builders. Sandeep Patil also voiced his concern, suggesting that the victims of the fraud should be compensated for the negligence of the officials involved in approving the fraudulent documents. As the demolition process moves forward, tensions remain high, with residents questioning the fairness of the situation and calling for stronger legal consequences for those responsible.
