FIR Against Hiranandani Developers for Illegal Excavation in Powai
The Powai police have taken a significant step against Hiranandani Developers by registering an FIR on July 10, 2025. The real estate major is accused of conducting illegal excavation on a road in the hilly area adjacent to the Hiranandani helipad in Powai. The excavation, measuring approximately 300 metres in length, 4 to 5 metres in width, and 1 to 2 metres in depth, was carried out without the requisite permissions from the authority concerned.
Based on a complaint by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the police booked Hiranandani Developers under Sections 52 (unauthorised development or use of land) and 43 (restriction on development and land use changes without permission) of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act. Despite the allegations, a company spokesperson denied any illegal activities, stating that all operations were conducted in compliance with the law.
According to sources, the matter came to light when a journalist approached the Ghatkopar police. The Ghatkopar police then informed the BMC, which took immediate action. The FIR, filed on July 3, 2025, states that the L Ward of the BMC received a complaint about illegal excavation in the hilly area of Powai (Chandivali). Two junior engineers from the BMC visited the site the same day, between 1.15 pm and 1.30 pm, and confirmed the illegal excavation near the helipad.
At the site, the engineers encountered Santosh More, a 45-year-old security officer with Hiranandani Developers. The engineers documented their findings, including photographs, and submitted a report to their seniors. Following this, on July 7, the BMC issued a notice to Hiranandani Developers under Section 354A of the BMC Act, which mandates the cessation of any unlawful construction or work.
According to the law, the developer should have applied for permission for excavation within 24 hours of commencing the work. However, Hiranandani Developers failed to do so, leading to the BMC filing a complaint. Sanjay Dudhbhate, a 39-year-old Assistant Engineer with the BMC’s L Ward and a resident of Andheri East, filed the complaint, which led to the registration of the FIR by the police.
This incident highlights the importance of adhering to legal and regulatory frameworks in the real estate sector. The BMC and law enforcement authorities are committed to ensuring that all development activities comply with the rules and regulations to maintain public safety and order.
