Mumbai: New leadership sparks hope for Aarey Colony

Tukaram Mundhe visited several locations in Aarey Milk Colony

In a promising development, Aarey Milk Colony may witness revitalisation under the guidance of newly appointed Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Department secretary, IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe. Known for his decisive approach, Mundhe's recent visit to the colony has raised hopes for addressing illegal encroachments and non-dairy activities.

Mundhe's direct approach and administrative prowess position him as a beacon of change for Aarey Milk Colony. During his visit, he firmly instructed staff members to take stringent action against unlawful encroachments, unauthorised structures, and activities prohibited within the Eco-Sensitive Zone. Sources from the Aarey CEO office further reveal that Mundhe stressed the need to take action against cattle farm owners who are leasing designated spaces for purposes unrelated to dairy production.

This development is part of a larger bureaucratic reshuffle, with Tukaram Mundhe assuming the role of secretary in the Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Department in May 2023. His appointment aligns with ongoing efforts led by Aarey Milk Colony CEO Balasaheb Wakchaure, who has already initiated actions to dismantle illegal structures in the area.

Talking to mid-day Balasaheb Wakchaure, CEO of Aarey Milk Colony, shared, "Last week, Secretary Tukaram Mundhe visited several locations in Aarey Milk Colony and directed us to take action against illegal structures and activities prohibited within the Eco-Sensitive Zone. As per his instructions, we have also started the process of recovering pending dues from cattle farm owners and are taking action against those who have rented out the allotted space for non-cattle-farm activities. Following his visit, we have also initiated action against illegal hawkers and unauthorised parking."

Growing concerns about illegal encroachments, slums, and hutments on Aarey land have spurred a call for urgent action. Addressing these issues is of paramount importance, as emphasised by sources within Aarey Milk Colony. The source also highlighted the need for strict enforcement against cattle farm owners allowing unauthorised usage of their spaces for private enterprises.

Concurrently, the Aarey CEO office has begun notifying cattle farm owners regarding outstanding dues related to various facilities. However, an anonymous cattle farm owner expressed dissatisfaction, stating, "While the CEO office pursues pending dues recovery, concerns arise over billing calculations. Inconsistent essential facilities, such as water supply due to ageing and damaged infrastructure, force us to rely on private water tankers. Yet, we are billed for the entire month by Aarey dairy. Basic amenities like proper roads remain a concern. The question remains: what steps are being taken by the Aarey CEO office to address these issues?"