Bombay HC Orders BMC, Collector To Demolish Illegal Structures Near Mumbai Airport

Mumbai: The Bombay High Court has directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Mumbai Suburban District Collector to take action against unauthorised structures near Mumbai International Airport that violate safety norms and pose a risk to aircraft.

The court has also asked the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to decide on appeals filed by certain buildings that exceed height restrictions, challenging notices by BMC and Collector. HC has called for a report on action taken.

A bench of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice MS Karnik was hearing a PIL by activist Yeshwant Shenoy raising concerns over aviation safety and seeking the removal of unauthorised buildings around the airport. Shenoy argued that despite previous violations, new constructions continued to emerge, making strict monitoring essential.

On Wednesday, the court observed that authorities had failed to take adequate action against illegal constructions. “If you have not taken action, we will ask you to do so,” the bench told the BMC and the Collector, directing them to follow up on pending appeals and ensure compliance. Addressing the DGCA, the court said, “You must decide. You cannot endanger the public.”

The Mumbai Suburban District Collector filed an affidavit stating that certain structures were razed that were in contravention of rules. Also, the Collector said that they have removed portions of structures that were in contravention of approved plans.

Some societies, voluntarily, have partially complied by removing elements such as water tanks, antennas, and staircases, but concrete structures exceeding permitted heights remain.

Moreover, certain buildings had appealed before the DGCA against their notices and depending on their outcome, the Collector said, action would be taken. The HC has asked the DGCA to decide on these within four weeks.

The collector, with assistance from the BMC, has been instructed to remove all unauthorized portions of identified structures within four weeks and submit a compliance report.

The HC has kept the matter for hearing on May 5, when the court has asked to submit a progress report on demolition and compliance measures taken.