The Bombay High Court has told authorities to mark the land that belongs to the University of Mumbai at its Kalina campus. They need to remove any buildings or structures that are inside the marked boundaries.
- This order came during a hearing about a petition. The petition was about people building things on university land in Kalina, Mumbai without permission.
The court said that land meant for education must be protected. They told the authorities to do a survey to clearly mark the boundaries.
Kalina, in Mumbais Santacruz (East) is home to a campus of the University of Mumbai. Over the years people have raised concerns about buildings and structures on parts of the land. This led to the court getting involved.
The High Court told officials to make sure the marking of boundaries is done openly and with the universitys help. Once the boundaries are clear authorities need to remove any structures within the universitys limits according to the law.
- During the hearing the court said that schools and universities need land to work properly.
Encroachments can cause problems with development and may also create security and administrative issues.
Civic officials told the court that they had already done some surveys. They will schedule joint measurements with revenue authorities. The court wants a report on the progress of marking boundaries and removing encroachments within a timeframe.
Experts say that marking boundaries is a step in solving land disputes especially in cities like Mumbai where boundaries are often unclear. Once the land is officially mapped it’s easier for authorities to remove people who’re there illegally.
However removing structures in cities can be tricky especially if people have been living there for a long time. Courts usually require authorities to follow the process, including giving notices and allowing people to respond.
University officials are happy with the order. They said that the Kalina campus has plans for development that require clear land. They couldn’t expand facilities, research centers and student amenities because of uncertainty over some land.
- Planners say that protecting land for institutions is crucial in a city like Mumbai where real estate pressures are high.
These educational campuses are also green spaces and centers for academic growth.
The High Courts order will lead to coordinated action between the university, district administration and civic bodies. Authorities will now mark the boundaries formally before removing any structures.
There will likely be hearings after authorities submit reports, on their progress. The court will continue to monitor the situation.
