Thane Congress delegation meets TMC Commissioner Saurabh Rao over Yeoor forest construction

A Thane Congress delegation recently met Thane Municipal Corporation Commissioner Saurabh Rao. The delegation was led by Vikrant Chavan. The discussion lasted about an hour. It raised alleged illegal construction in the Yeoor forest area, alleged irregularities in the transfer of tribal land, and the issue of unauthorised hoardings across Thane city.

The delegation asked the commissioner to have the municipal corporation start an inquiry and take strict action against those who break the law.

Congress members expressed concern over growing construction in the Yeoor forest area around the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. They alleged that large bungalows were being built there at the cost of the area's natural environment and ecological balance. The delegation demanded a thorough inquiry into all construction there, both approved and unapproved, and concrete steps to prevent further damage to the environment.

Another major issue was the alleged illegal transfer of tribal land. The delegation claimed that some political leaders, government officials and influential builders had cheated tribal residents and got their land transferred to their own names. It demanded an impartial inquiry into these deals and strict legal action against those found guilty.

The Congress representatives also raised the matter of illegal hoardings put up at many places within the municipal corporation's limits. They asked the corporation to conduct a survey across the city to identify illegal hoardings and act against those responsible.

The delegation's demands also included an inquiry into illegal constructions across Thane, protection of forest areas and safeguarding the land rights of tribal communities.

Congress president Rahul Pingle, advocate Nishikant Koli, Thane city Mahila Congress president Smita Vaiti, former corporator Sheetal Aher and several party office-bearers were present at the meeting.

Commissioner Rao took note of the issues raised. He assured the delegation that necessary action would be initiated in these matters.