The illegal cutting of mangroves and the construction of unauthorised structures in ecologically sensitive areas may soon face government action. The Maharashtra government has called a joint meeting of senior officials from the police, the mangrove cell, the forest department, and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to discuss coordinated action against violations, including encroachments and destruction of mangrove cover, which are in breach of environmental norms and court directives.

Destruction of nature, yet no action

Sanjay Upadhyay, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator from Borivali, on Thursday told the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly that acres of mangroves have been destroyed to create illegal encroachments and structures in the area. He alleged that cattle slaughter was also taking place there and claimed that some people had warned him against visiting the site, saying it could endanger his life. Upadhyay said that if no action is taken, he would personally visit the area next Sunday to highlight the issue.