Citizen Activist Files Complaint Against Illegal Encroachment in Ecologically Sensitive Zone

Strategic Insights -

Citizen activist Seema Tank has filed a complaint with the Panvel Municipal Corporation, CIDCO, and the LokAyukta alleging illegal encroachment and misuse of a government plot in Sector 16, Kharghar, by Sri Sai Ganesh Mandir Trust. The plot, located near mangroves and wetlands, has raised concerns about disturbance to local wildlife. Tank submitted photographs and video evidence with the complaint, pointing out that the trust has no legal ownership or supporting documents for the structure. She also recalled a similar incident in 2024 where the same persons allegedly installed an open gym illegally on mangroves and wetlands.

Key Takeaways:

  • Seema Tank, a citizen activist, has filed a complaint against Sri Sai Ganesh Mandir Trust for alleged illegal encroachment and misuse of a government plot in Sector 16, Kharghar.
  • The plot is located near mangroves and wetlands, an ecologically sensitive zone, raising concerns about disturbance to local wildlife.
  • The trust has no legal ownership or supporting documents for the structure, with Tank stating that only a letter requesting allotment was submitted to the PMC, but no official approval or allotment was ever granted.
  • Tank also recalled a similar incident in 2024 where the same persons allegedly installed an open gym illegally on mangroves and wetlands, despite her earlier complaint to the civic body and CIDCO.
  • The complaint was submitted to the Panvel Municipal Corporation, CIDCO, and the LokAyukta, with calls and messages to Deputy Municipal Commissioner Ravikiran Ghodake going unanswered.
  • Tank emphasized the need for law and order, expecting officers to protect government property and maintain law and order, instead of allowing such illegalities to flourish.

Statistics:

  • 10mt: Distance between the government plot and nearest mangroves and wetlands
  • 1: Number of buildings or structures allegedly installed by the trust on the government plot
  • 2024: Year in which the trust allegedly installed an open gym on mangroves and wetlands in Sector 16
  • 1: Number of complaints filed by Seema Tank against the trust for alleged illegal activities

Sources:

  • "Citizen Activist Files Complaint Against Illegal Encroachment in Ecologically Sensitive Zone", by Indian National Press (Bombay) Pvt. Ltd., distributed by Contify.com, 2025