'Illegal' film studio demolished in Mumbai after NGT order

A day after National Green Tribunal (NGT) decision, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Friday undertook a demolition drive against the 'illegally built' film studios in the Madh-Marve area in Malad.

According to reports, of the total 11 studios as many five studios will be demolished, civic officials said.

The move occurred when former BJP MP Kirit Somaiya revealed the matter in September 2022, stating that unlawful buildings worth Rs 1,000 crore had been built in the regions, flagrantly breaking all standards.

Somaiya, who is the whistle-blower in the case, hit out at BMC Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal claiming that he knew the structures were illegal but didn't take any action. ''We approached court which questioned BMC on how illegal constructions were allowed,'' he said.

Permission was given to these five studios for a temporary structure, but they had set up a huge structure in which a lot of steel and concrete material was used.

On April 6, the National Green Tribunal vacated its stay and ordered action, following which action was initiated against five studios, the civic body said. A team of 10 engineers and 40 civic employees is carrying out demolitions with the help of JCB machines, two dumpers, two gas cutters and other equipment amid police presence, it added.