Mumbai: Royal Palms under scanner for alleged construction inside SGNP

The location in Royal Palms township, where vegetation has been cleared and unauthorised structures erected without environmental clearances, leading to noise and vehicular disturbance to wildlife. Pic/Vanashakti

Fresh allegations of illegal construction inside the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of Sanjay Gandhi National Park have surfaced, with environmentalists claiming trees have been cleared and unauthorised sheds erected inside the Royal Palms township in Aarey Milk Colony in Goregaon. Activists warn that night-time construction and film shoots are causing noise, light, and traffic disturbance to wildlife in the protected area.

What triggered complaint

>> Alleged construction near Windsor Gate at Royal Palms
>> Trees and vegetation reportedly cleared
>> Sheds allegedly built without environmental clearance
>> Activities said to be ongoing at night
Environmentalist Stalin D has written to multiple authorities, including the Collector, BMC, Forest Department, MPCB and police.

What activists allege

"Trees have been cleared, and large sheds are being erected illegally. This has continued despite complaints for four years," said Stalin D.
"We have submitted geo-tagged photos and videos and expect action."

Official response

The municipal commissioner, who also heads ESZ monitoring committee, did not respond to queries till press time.

The Royal Palms location, where vegetation has been cleared and structures are now visible. Pics/By Special Arrangement

Disturbance reported

>> Night film shoots with high lighting
>> Loud sound equipment
>> Heavy vehicle movement through Aarey roads

A local resident said, "Night shoots with intense lighting and noise are disturbing both wildlife and residents. How are such activities allowed inside the Eco-Sensitive Zone?"

Questions raised

>> Why no action despite earlier complaints?
>> Has the ESZ monitoring committee failed to act?
>> Zonal master plan for the area is still pending
Activists say they may approach the court if authorities do not halt the work.

What is banned in an Eco-Sensitive Zone

>> Mining and excavation
>> Polluting industrial activities
>> Large construction projects
>> Night shoots and high-intensity lighting
>> Any activity disturbing wildlife habitat