Bombay High Court Slams BMC Over Powai Encroachments: 'Surrendered Mumbai'

• Bombay High Court criticized BMC for failing to clear encroachments in Powai, calling it a "lame excuse" and "complete abdication of powers."
• The court questioned if BMC has "surrendered" Mumbai to encroachers, noting its focus on protecting "sentiments and religious rights."
• BMC claimed the street was private property, preventing action, but the High Court rejected this, stating it showed a lack of will to deal with the problem.
• Judges directed the civic commissioner to submit a concrete plan to remove encroachments within 10 days and remove mobile toilets within 48 hours.
• The court raised concerns about traffic congestion due to encroachments, warning that shrinking road space could force residents to use bicycles or horses.