The Yashwant Mandai building at Raviwar Karanja is in a precarious condition, and despite the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) issuing notices, the shopkeepers operating there are refusing to vacate their stalls. As a result, the NMC’s Tax Collection Department, with assistance from the police, plans to evict the businesses from the building and seal the stalls. This action will proceed as soon as the Commissioner approves it.
The 40-year-old building underwent a structural audit by the NMC, which revealed that it could collapse at any moment. Consequently, the Tax Collection Department issued notices to the shopkeepers to vacate the premises. However, the shopkeepers had approached the court, where their plea was dismissed. Following this, the NMC issued final notices for vacating the stalls, stating that the building would be demolished.
Despite repeated warnings, the shopkeepers have refused to comply. As a result, the Tax Collection Department will now initiate the evacuation of stalls under police protection. The NMC plans to replace the building with a multi-storey parking lot or a commercial complex.
₹7 crore due
Currently, 10 to 12 shopkeepers have not cleared their dues, with rent arrears amounting to ₹7 crore. If the arrears are not paid, the properties of these defaulters will be attached, according to the NMC.
Permission sought for demolition
“Permission has been sought from the Commissioner to demolish the Yashwant Mandai building under police protection. This building is dangerous and can collapse at any time,” stated Shrikant Pawar, Deputy Commissioner, Miscellaneous Taxes and Permits Department, NMC.
