From now, the construction of structures at public spaces, roads, footpaths or highways should not be allowed without the consent of the concerned authorities of Public Works Department, National Highway Authority of India and local civic bodies.

Construction of ‘entry gates’ to religious places, housing societies under state scanner The entry gate to Aamby Valley City.
Construction of ‘entry gates’ to religious places, housing societies under state scanner The entry gate to Aamby Valley City.

The Maharashtra government has decided to put a check on the construction of arches and entry gates on roads and footpaths near religious places. The government has directed local civic bodies to pull down such structures if they are built illegally.

In a resolution, the government said the Bombay High Court has given directions on the construction of arches, pillars and entry gates on roads leading to religious places. Within three months, the civic bodies should serve public notices to those who have constructed arches, pillars and entry gates near religious places. The builders will be asked if they have permission from the civic body for the construction and will have to submit documents as proof to the civic body.

“Thereafter, the civic body should begin the process of pulling down the structures in a month that are unclaimed or constructed without permission,” the government resolution said.

It added that authorities should ensure that the structures should not cause hurdles for traffic and not damage property or life.

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