Maharashtra's Bold Move: Tackling Encroachment in SGNP

The Maharashtra government plans to rehabilitate eligible encroachers in Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Forest Minister Ganesh Naik announced a phased approach, with 299 encroachers already eligible. Housing for 2,200 families is proposed in Goregaon. Discussions are ongoing to facilitate the rehabilitation process and ensure basic amenities for residents.

The Maharashtra government is poised to address encroachment issues within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) located in suburban Mumbai. Forest Minister Ganesh Naik updated the legislative council on the government's plans, noting that they are working progressively to rehabilitate eligible encroachers.

Currently, the government has identified 299 out of a first phase of 11,359 claims as eligible for rehabilitation. In the second phase, officials are considering 13,486 more claims. As part of the rehabilitation proposal, around 2,200 families could be provided with housing on 20 acres in the Aarey Colony area of Goregaon.

A meeting is scheduled with the Chief Minister's Office to expedite the process. Furthermore, instructions will be given to ensure there is no disruption to essential repair work for amenities like water and toilet facilities for settlements outside the park. Additional inputs were provided by legislators Anil Parab, Chitra Wagh, Rajesh Rathod, and Manisha Kayande.

(With inputs from agencies.)