APMC administration raises objection

A recent move by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) to crackdown on traders crafting wooden boxes along Samaik Road, adjacent to the APMC fruit market, has sparked controversy. The municipal action, aimed at reclaiming footpath space, has drawn ire from the APMC administration, claiming authority over the area.

Traditionally, as March ushers in the peak season of hapus mango sales, the demand for wooden boxes escalates to facilitate transportation. Consequently, traders set up shop in the vicinity of the APMC fruit market, including along Samaik Road. However, the Municipal Corporation, citing its jurisdiction under the Municipal Corporation Act and the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act, 1966, proceeded with the crackdown, deeming the footpath occupation as an encroachment.

This clash of authority stems from differing interpretations of legislation governing municipal corporation and market committee jurisdictions. While the Market Committee, operating under the Maharashtra Agricultural Produce Marketing (Regulation) Act, issues licenses for businesses within its ambit, the Municipal Corporation asserts its right to regulate encroachments within municipal limits.

The APMC administration, however, contends that the traders had been operating with licenses sanctioned by the Board of Directors, emphasizing their claim to the area behind the fruit market. Suresh Mohade, Executive Engineer at APMC, expressed disappointment over the lack of communication from the Municipal Corporation, highlighting attempts to engage in dialogue prior to the enforcement action.

The situation is compounded by previous safety concerns, notably a fire incident in November 2022 that engulfed paper cartons and wooden boxes, resulting in significant damage. Despite directives from the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation fire brigade and condemnation of encroachments by a committee appointed post the fire, the APMC administration had permitted continued business activities along the road.