Authorities in Mumbai have removed an illegal structure that came up near the pathway leading to the historic Mount Mary Church in the Bandra area, following strong objections from Catholic groups and local residents.
The unauthorized construction, including an embankment wall and aligned structures, appeared near the church steps in mid-January. The area is clearly marked as an open public space and falls within a protected heritage zone. The Mount Mary Church is an important part of Mumbai’s religious and cultural history, and any construction in its surroundings requires special permission.
Members of Catholic organizations raised concerns that the construction violated heritage and town planning rules. They warned that allowing such activities could damage public trust in governance and threaten the protection of historic sites. Complaints were submitted to both municipal and police authorities, demanding immediate action and legal steps against those responsible.
The construction reportedly began soon after the local municipal election results were announced on January 16. Community leaders expressed concern over the timing and called for transparency and fairness in civic administration.
Following the complaints, civic authorities ordered the contractor to stop work, remove the embankment, and clear all construction materials from the site. Local representatives assured residents that there would be no further encroachment on the pathway leading to the church.
Church officials expressed gratitude to vigilant community groups for their timely intervention. Municipal authorities later clarified that the work was initially planned to provide access for a nearby settlement, but it was halted once it was confirmed that the land belonged to the church.
Mount Mary Church, located on a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea, houses a revered 16th-century statue of the Virgin Mary and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year, including people from other faiths.
