Partial razing after 20 years: Locals slam BMC's half efforts

After 2 decades, residents of Sukh Shanti building on Pedder Road saw the BMC partially demolish an illegal structure

- Rucha Kanolkar

After 19 years of struggle, residents of the Sukh Shanti building on Pedder Road finally saw the BMC partially demolish an illegal structure. A commercial establishment had amalgamated two residential flats, sparking a long legal battle initiated by frustrated residents.

The issue began in 2005 after Dr Soneji, the owner of one of the flats, passed away. His death allowed Nishant Mahimtura, co-owner of a second flat, to combine the units and create a commercial space, violating property regulations and encroaching on communal spaces. "The original layout was altered without legal standing," stated advocate Vijay Mishra, representing the Sukh Shanti Cooperative Housing Society.