Mumbai: The High Court has directed the Thane Municipal Corporation to examine the water department's actions in providing water to illegal structures lacking appropriate documentation, noting that this practice during a water crisis constitutes a public nuisance.
The court's decision arises from cases related to 21 unlawful structures in Thane, leading to swift demolition efforts in the Shil village region. Additionally, the court directed electricity providers to make sure that connections are authorized only after complete document verification, dismissing guarantees or affidavits as adequate.
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The court highlighted the importance of cooperation between the Municipal Commissioner and electricity suppliers to stop illegal buildings from obtaining services.
Moreover, issues were highlighted regarding the widespread use of counterfeit documents in these situations, prompting the court to mandate the appointment of a public grievance officer to handle associated complaints.
The judges cautioned that postponing measures against these illegal buildings would worsen the problem and emphasized the involvement of city officials in permitting these developments to remain.
They demanded accountability from those at fault, emphasizing that inaction would weaken the justice system. The Municipal Corporation must provide a report on the measures implemented at the upcoming hearing set for August 4.
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Water Crisis In Thane
Thane is facing a significant water crisis, with regular shortages experienced by residents despite Maharashtra receiving 107% of its average monsoon rainfall last year, indicating severe management issues. Water supply cuts force residents to rely on expensive tanker deliveries.
The crisis reveals systemic failures in the state's irrigation management and the Jal Jeevan Mission. Residents’ dependency on costly tanker supplies exacerbates their challenges.
Thane is integrated with Mumbai’s water supply, relying on several dams in Shahapur Taluka, which deliver approximately 3.4 billion litres daily to Mumbai. For disruptions, residents can contact the Thane Municipal Corporation helpline at 1533 or register complaints online.
