Mumbai 21-06-2023: The Andheri RTO officials, assisted by the JCP, took action on Tuesday to dismantle the encroachment. The slums hut in question had been a hub for continuous illegal activities such as the production of illicit liquor, gambling, and public drinking, carried out by antisocial elements. Additionally, the presence of garbage heaps near the huts posed a safety hazard and emitted a foul stench, causing concerns among the local community. Multiple complaints were lodged by residents to the Andheri RTO administration regarding this matter.
In response to the citizens’ concerns, the Andheri RTO office swiftly initiated action. Regional Transport Officer Ashok Pawar, following his orders, directed Inspector of Motor Vehicles Umesh Devre and the RTO team to carry out the operation to remove the encroachment.
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The process of dismantling the encroachment began at around 3:30 pm and continued until approximately 5:30 pm. With the assistance of the JCP, the huts situated near the RTO premises’ security wall were demolished. The RTO administration has also corresponded with the collector’s office and the municipal administration, urging them to take necessary measures to clear the remaining encroachments. Plans are underway to utilize the vacant land for establishing a center under the guidance of the I&C. Furthermore, there is a demand for the appointment of security guards to ensure the safety of the area and prevent any future trespassing. The entire space will remain free from encroachments and solely dedicated to the activities of the transport department, as affirmed by Ashok Pawar, the Regional Transport Officer of Andheri.
It is worth noting that these illegal huts had been in place for more than five years, serving as sites for illicit activities and becoming a source of concern for the community. The removal of the encroachment has brought relief to the area, which was previously plagued by these issues.