The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Saturday carried out demolition of alleged unauthorised structures at HR College of Commerce and Economics near Churchgate as part of its ongoing action against illegal constructions across the city.
According to civic officials, asbestos sheds and enclosed rooms had been erected within the campus using brick partitions along staircase landings from the ground floor to the fifth floor. An unauthorised mezzanine floor beneath the registrar’s office was also removed during the operation. These structures were identified as violations during inspections conducted in 2024.
A formal notice had earlier been served to the college, directing it to dismantle the disputed constructions. The notice warned that failure to comply “could result in imprisonment of those involved or the imposition of fines ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹25,000.” After what was described as non-compliance, the civic body initiated enforcement measures.
In an official statement, the college administration said it had maintained active engagement with the concerned authorities. It added that a proposal seeking regularisation of the structures had been “duly submitted online.” The institution maintained that it remained “committed to working within the framework of law” and that compliance requirements were being appropriately addressed.
However, sources within the college raised concerns over the timing of the demolition, stating that it was undertaken during lecture and examination hours. They referred to the earlier notice, which reportedly mentioned that such action would be carried out on a holiday or non-working day. As Saturday is a working day for the institution, it was stated that academic activities were disrupted.
The episode was described by the college as “disheartening,” while reiterating its intent to pursue “constructive dialogue” and a “lawful resolution of the matter.”
Source: Mumbai Live
