Vasai Virar Authority urges 'Proof of Residence' from 41 Illegal Building Occupants

The Vasai Virar City Municipal Corporation (VVCMC) is facing a challenge in its effort to document residents of 41 illegally constructed buildings.  Despite urging residents to apply for a "proof of residence" certificate, which serves as official documentation of their purchase in these buildings, the VVCMC has received only six valid applications.  

This certificate is crucial, as it not only confirms residency but also acknowledges that residents were victims of fraudulent construction practices and suffered financial losses. 

It is intended to assist them should future government schemes become available.

Dipak Sawant, Deputy Municipal Commissioner of the VVCMC and head of the Controller, Unauthorized Construction (CUC) department, confirmed the low application rate, stating that while he lacked precise ward office numbers, most applications were incomplete due to missing documents.  Required documentation includes a sales/purchase agreement with the developer and basic KYC documents.

The situation is further complicated by ongoing demolitions.  Deputy Commissioner of Police, Pournima Chougule, reported that 18 of the 41 illegal buildings have been demolished.  She acknowledged a recent protest by approximately 200 residents, which required additional police presence to manage. 

Chougule stated that while there is continuous communication with residents and general cooperation, misinformation and rumors sometimes incite reactions from the crowd.  She cited examples of such rumors, including claims that demolitions could be stopped through pressure or that further legal options exist, which are misleading and contribute to the tense atmosphere.

The low uptake of the residency certificate, coupled with the ongoing demolitions and resident protests, highlights the complex challenges facing the VVCMC in addressing the issue of illegal construction.