The MPDA has continued to partially demolish houses in the Funnel zone amidst strong police protection. Residents, feeling aggrieved, have appealed to the Supreme Court of India. Although the hearing from the Supreme Court is still going on, the MPDA continues its demolition drive.
Residents assert that they possess valid permissions from multiple authorities, including the Panchayat, PDA, TCP, and a Naval Non-Objection Certificate (NOC). They highlight discrepancies in the NOC issued by the Navy, initially permitting construction up to 3.5 meters but now restricting it to 2 meters.
MPDA authorities deployed a JCB for demolition accompanied by police personnel. Expressing dismay, residents state, "Now they are demolishing our houses on the basis of height violation despite initially allowing us to build up to 3.50 meters. We have no idea why they are doing this." The Navy cites satellite data showing height violation as justification for the demolition.
The demolition drive is slated to continue for the next 10 days, leaving residents uncertain about their living arrangements. With their homes destroyed and limited resources for renovation, they face the prospect of homelessness.
While residents await the Supreme Court's decision, they express frustration that despite ongoing legal proceedings, the MPDA proceeds with demolitions.
In light of the displacement caused by the demolitions, residents appeal to the government for shelter assistance for affected families.