Navi Mumbai: In the wake of the Bombay High Court order, NMMC has swung into action and removed the encroachment around the Lotus Lake located at sector 27, Nerul.

An illegal cowshed that was operating has been removed and fence has been installed along the southern portion of the lake to stop debris dumping. However, clearing the chestnuts from the lake is pending, DK Jain, an alert citizen from the sector, said.

Since the lake located on plot 2, sector 27, Nerul, falls under the jurisdiction of CIDCO, the chestnut removal will be done jointly by NMMC and CIDCO, Dr Amol Palve, assistant commissioner, Belapur Ward, NMMC, said.

Fencing on the periphery and installation of CCTV will also be done as discussed in a meeting held on April 24th. 24 x 7 vigil is being maintained to curb the menace of encroachment and debris dumping, according to Dr Palve.

On April 15, Bombay High Court had directed the NMMC to ensure the protection of the lake and submit a report before April 29. Advocate Pradeep Patole, a resident of sector 27, had filed a PIL against encroachment on the lake. 

Residents alleged that the chestnut farming had affected the quality of lake water and consequently prevented the growth of lotus.