Local residents and nature lovers in Navi Mumbai came together on Sunday to form a human chain and voice their concerns about the destruction of Belapur Hill. The hill is facing rapid encroachments and tree cuttings, which residents fear could lead to landslides. The protest was not only against the loss of the hill, but also against the authorities’ negligence in addressing the encroachments. Banners with messages like ‘Save Belapur Hills’ and ‘Stop Murder of Trees’ were displayed during the protest.
Residents have been raising alarms about the illegal construction and temples on Belapur Hill for the past nine years. They believe that these structures weaken the hill and pose a serious risk during the monsoon season. In response to the complaints, the Chief Minister has asked the Urban Development department to investigate the issue. However, the agency responsible for the hill’s maintenance, Cidco, has yet to take decisive action.
NatConnect Foundation director B N Kumar has been actively involved in the fight to protect Belapur Hill. He has even filed an application under the Right to Information Act, seeking information on the steps taken to save the hill. Kumar has also alerted the Cidco chief vigilance officer, who stated that a committee is looking into the issue.
Local residents are disappointed with the lack of government action against the encroachments. They point out that the forest land is under Cidco’s control, yet illegal structures continue to receive water and power connections. The encroachments are rapidly increasing, and residents fear that the hill’s destruction will only worsen if no action is taken.
The protest against the hill’s destruction has gained momentum thanks to the efforts of the Kalpataru Cooperative Housing Society and the participation of neighboring society members. Dashrath Bhujbal from Hill View Row Houses Society expressed concern about the severe damage being done to the hill due to encroachments and emphasized the risk of landslides. Chobasco Colaco and Sunil Bhadange also spoke out against the cutting of trees and the hill, questioning how those responsible could enjoy the benefits without consequences.
The protest saw the participation of many housewives and children, demonstrating their support for the cause. However, the top officials responsible for addressing the issue seem to be in denial and have not learned from past tragedies such as the Irshalwadi landslides, according to Jyoti Nadkarni of the Kharghar Hill and Wetlands group.
The crisis surrounding Belapur Hill dates back to 2015 when the then Cidco Managing Director, Sanjay Bhatia, promised action. At that time, the temple construction on the hill had just begun, with only a few temples present. However, the situation has worsened, and now there are at least 20 temples on the hill.
The urgent need to save Belapur Hill cannot be understated. The destruction caused by encroachments and tree cuttings has reached an alarming level, threatening the stability of the hill and the safety of the surrounding areas. The local residents and nature lovers who formed the human chain hope that their protest will serve as a wake-up call to the authorities, urging them to take immediate action to save Belapur Hill.
