BMC to take back leased Juhu plot

The improvements committee on Friday cleared the proposal to take back the land given to a private trust in Juhu, following gross violation of lease agreement by the trust.

The improvements committee on Friday cleared the proposal to take back the land given to a private trust in Juhu, following gross violation of lease agreement by the trust.

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The BMC bought the 4.5-acre recreational ground from the Maharashtra Housing Area Development Authority in 1986.

The plot, earmarked a ‘city forest’ in JVPD scheme, was given to Ronson Foundation for development and maintenance in 1990. In 1998, it was leased to the trust under the caretaker policy.

After citizens’ complaints about lack of access to the ground and hacking of several trees, the BMC conducted an inquiry.

A tree census showed that of the 1300 trees on the plot, only 438 were remaining. The 1998 agreement, not ratified by the civic general body, was termed null and void. Also, the commencement certificate for construction on the plot had lapsed.

“There were serious violations by the trust. Hence, we agreed to take back the land," said Bhalchandra Shirsat, chairman of the improvements committee.