Mumbai: The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has informed the Bombay High Court that most illegal turf clubs operating in the eco-sensitive Yeoor area of Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), Thane, have been sealed or demolished.

The submission was made before a bench of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne, which was hearing a 2023 public interest litigation (PIL) filed by activist Rohit Joshi, flagging illegal operations in the protected zone.

TMC counsel Mandar Limaye said 10 turf clubs were functioning in the area, of which eight have been completely demolished. The owners of the remaining two have assured the civic body they would remove the structures themselves.

Senior advocate Gayatri Singh, appearing for Joshi, told the court that two more turf clubs had been identified and sought permission to inform the TMC.

An affidavit filed by Assistant Municipal Commissioner Vijay Kasale stated that of nine clubs initially identified, seven had been sealed while two were shut and their unauthorised structures demolished. Regarding one remaining establishment—Mumbai Cricket Association—the official said if the owner fails to act, the TMC will demolish the illegal construction. Demolition of another club, M/s Green Velvet Cricket Turf, is underway and nearing completion.

The court directed the TMC commissioner to grant a week's time to the owners of the two remaining clubs to voluntarily remove the structures, failing which the civic body must act within the following week, in accordance with the law.

The court also granted liberty to Joshi to notify the TMC of any additional turf clubs operating in the eco-sensitive zone. The TMC has been directed to verify and take action if they are found illegal.

As per BMC affidavit, action taken against

M/s. T & T Tennis Club

M/s. Pitch Turf

M/s. Rangoli Turf

M/s. Rangoli Turf (Y King Cricket Turf)

M / s. Golden Swan Country Club

M / s. Golden Swan Country Club (Golf Academy)

Mumbai Cricket Association Turf

M/s. Green Velvet Cricket Turf