Hiranandani Builders Booked by BMC for Illegal Excavation Near Powai Helipad
Mumbai, July 11, 2025 – The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has lodged an FIR against Hiranandani Builders & Developers for unauthorized excavation on a hill slope adjacent to the Powai helipad. The action comes after BMC officials from the L-Ward discovered extensive trenching activity allegedly carried out without requisite permissions.
Key Details:
- Site Inspection: On July 3, 2025, BMC officers found that a trench approximately 300 meters long, 4–5 meters wide, and 1–2 meters deep had been dug on the slope behind the Hiranandani helipad in Powai.
- Initial Notice: A stop-work notice under Section 354A of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act was served on July 7. However, excavation reportedly continued into July 8, prompting legal escalation.
- FIR Registration: Based on a complaint filed by L-Ward sub-engineer Sanjay Dudhbate, Powai Police registered an FIR on July 10, 2025, under Sections 52 and 43 of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act, 1966.
- Presence on Site: During the BMC inspection, Santosh More, identified as a security officer for Hiranandani Builders, was present at the location.
- Evidence Submitted: The FIR includes photographic documentation and a detailed report compiled by municipal staff to support allegations of unauthorized activity.
FIR Details:
- Police Station: Powai Police Station
- FIR Number: Not publicly disclosed
- Date Filed: July 10, 2025
- Applicable Laws: Sections 52 and 43 of the MRTP Act, 1966
Developer’s Response:
Hiranandani Group has denied the allegations, stating that the site in question was formerly a barren quarry and has since been transformed into a green area. The company asserted that no illegal excavation was conducted and that there was no intent to cause environmental harm.
Next Steps:
- Investigation: Powai Police are currently conducting further inquiries to assess whether any violations occurred and the potential environmental impact.
- Penalties: If the company is found in breach of the MRTP Act, it could face financial penalties and be ordered to restore the site.
- BMC Oversight: Municipal authorities may impose stricter monitoring on development in ecologically sensitive zones like Powai’s hill slopes.
References:
- The Times of India, “FIR against Hiranandani builders for unauthorised excavation and soil erosion in Powai following BMC’s complaint”, published July 11, 2025.
- The Free Press Journal, “BMC flags illegal excavation near helipad by Hiranandani developers in Powai; FIR registered under MRTP Act”, published July 11, 2025.
- The Indian Express, “BMC files FIR against Hiranandani Builders for unauthorised excavation in hilly area of Powai”, published July 11, 2025.