Tilakwadi’s open space faces fresh encroachment despite court order

Belagavi: Residents of Swami Vivekanand Nagar in Tilakwadi have alleged fresh unauthorised construction on a public open space despite a court order directing removal of encroachments from the site.

The issue has been formally brought to the notice of Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) commissioner Kartik M by members of the Swami Vivekananda Welfare Association, who have sought immediate action against the alleged encroachment.

According to the association, the land in question belongs to the city corporation and has long been earmarked as a public open space for residents of Swami Vivekanand Nagar and adjoining localities. The association alleged that despite repeated complaints and follow-ups with civic authorities, no effective action has been taken so far.

The principal senior civil judge, Belagavi, in a judgment dated March 20, 2023, declared the property an open space reserved for public use. The court also issued a mandatory injunction directing removal of encroachments and unauthorised structures within four months. The order stated that if encroachments were not cleared within the stipulated period, decree holders could execute demolition, with costs recoverable from the encroacher.

However, residents alleged the court’s directions were never implemented. They claimed that structures identified in the judgment were not demolished and that fresh construction has now taken place on the same site.

The welfare association further pointed out that the disputed land falls within the buffer zone adjoining a major stormwater drain. Residents fear continued construction could obstruct natural drainage, increase flooding risks during heavy rains, and threaten public safety and environmental management.

In its representation, the association urged BCC to immediately remove the unauthorised structures, restore the land to its intended use as a public open space, and initiate action against those violating planning norms and the court order.

The memorandum was submitted in the presence of Swami Vivekananda Welfare Association president Balkrishna Godse, secretary Santosh Kagawade, corporator Nandu Mirajkar, Nitin Nimbalkar, Deepak Pauskar and Stephen D’Costa.