Vasai-Virar, September 17, 2025 :- A fresh case of illegal construction has once again exposed the clout of the builder mafia in Vasai-Virar. Civic officials who attempted to demolish an unauthorised industrial shed in Pelhar ward were allegedly threatened and forced to retreat, raising serious questions about the administration’s ability to act.
According to reports, the demolition squad faced a three-hour standoff. Members of the mafia allegedly threatened to torch the municipality’s JCB machine and harm officials if they proceeded. The newly built shed still bore bamboo scaffolding, but shutters and paint were hurriedly added to give it the appearance of an old structure.
Despite repeated assurances from Maharashtra Guardian Minister Ganesh Naik—who vowed that no illegal construction would be tolerated after the Ganesh festival—such incidents continue unchecked. His assurances came after the August 26 building collapse in Virar’s Narangi area, which killed 17 people and triggered strong promises of action.
Now, residents and activists are questioning who is shielding these illegal builders and whether Municipal Commissioner Manoj Suryavanshi will take strict measures against them.
