On Chakrop pond encroachment, Bombay High Court’s transfer warning to District Collector

The Bombay High Court has reprimanded the Mumbai Suburban District Collector for not following its directive to remove encroachments around a natural pond in Charkop, Kandivali (West) for beautification. The court warned that it would recommend the Collector's transfer if he does not take effective action. The bench of Acting Chief Justice Ravindra V Ghuge and Justice Gautam A Ankhad heard a plea from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) seeking removal of encroachments to beautify the natural pond at Charkop Sector 7 in the western suburbs.

The court noted that the pond, blocked by 80% garbage, was in a shocking and terrible condition, with mangroves being eaten up. The court ordered the Collector to immediately remove encroachments and the BMC to clear the garbage. The court threatened to recommend the Collector's transfer if he is unable to take decisive actions.

The Collector was unable to attend the hearing due to a scheduled meeting, and the Deputy Collector represented him in court. The court examined photographs showing significant improvement and stated that a little more cleaning is needed to remove the remaining 25% of the lake. The bench adjourned the hearing to August 14 for the Collector's written explanation.