96 Panvel flat owners get eviction notices as Ground+12 storey building fails to obtain OC

Panvel City Municipal Corporation has issued evacuation notices to all 96 flat owners of Pioneer CHS, Panvel, citing lack of occupancy certificate (OC), while apparently sparing architects, structural or RCC consultants and builders/developers of accountability.

The corporation recently discontinued their water tanker service, which was being provided free of cost since November 2023, resulting in accumulated costs of Rs 18.54 lakh, despite recurring water tax payment defaults.

The Ground+12 storey building's occupants received possession in 2017, but the society failed to secure Transfer of Development Rights and meet other requirements due to unauthorised construction. Several government officials, including police personnel and other departmental staff, purchased flats in the building after 2017, alongside the original 46 members. PCMC's Panvel ward officer, Rupali Mane, requested a site inspection separately.

However, the authority's actions have drawn scrutiny as neither the three former architects nor the Panvel-based builders/developers received notices regarding the unauthorised construction.

The corporation issued notices under MRTP Act to select flat owners and the society on December 5, 2017, regarding illegal occupation. On June 28, 2021, they requested various documents, including TDR, taxes and bills documentation.

The society executed registered and unregistered agreements with developers/builders on September 28, 2012 and October 20, 2015. They obtained Construction Commencement certificate and appointed an architect without specifying the developers/builders. One developer copied his response to the society and other partners.

Despite these irregularities, three daily water tankers (Rs 1200 each) were supplied without billing, causing financial losses to the corporation under political pressure. Deputy engineer Vilas Chavan confirmed, "We have stopped the water tanker supply."

The property includes four shops owned by a retired ACP's son and former senior police inspector-Panvel, with several police officials, constables and government employees owning flats.PCMC chief Mangesh Chitale remained unavailable for comment despite Mirror sending text messages for comment.