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Nagpur: Two of Nagpur’s most central and peaceful neighbourhoods — Dhantoli and Congress Nagar — are at the heart of a growing controversy. Once quiet, tree-lined residential zones, these areas are now crowded with hospitals, diagnostic centres, and other commercial establishments.
Frustrated by the chaos, residents have taken the matter to the Bombay High Court (Nagpur Bench), accusing the authorities of allowing illegal commercialisation in what are officially marked as Yellow Zones — meant strictly for residential use.
Petition Challenges NMC and State Authorities
A writ petition has been filed by Swanand Laxman Soni (49), President of Dhantoli Nagrik Mandal, demanding accountability from the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), the State Urban Development and Planning Department, the Collector, Nagpur, and the Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT).
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The case was heard by Justice Anil Kilor and Justice Rajnish Vyas, who have issued notices to all the respondents and sought their reply.
‘Peaceful Neighbourhoods Turning Chaotic’
The petition alleges that NMC has been granting permissions for hospitals and other high-footfall businesses in these residential zones “without following the proper legal process.”
Residents say the result is unbearable:
- Narrow internal roads have become jammed with traffic.
- Street parking is overflowing.
- Noise and vehicular movement continue day and night.
“This is no longer the calm neighbourhood we once knew,” one Dhantoli resident said. “Our right to peace and safety is being ignored.”
The petition argues that this situation violates Articles 19 and 21 of the Constitution, which guarantee citizens the right to free movement and a peaceful, safe environment.
The Legal Issue: MRTP Act and UDCPR Ignored
Under the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act, 1966, any change in land use — especially from residential to commercial — requires strict approval procedures and public notice.
The Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations, 2020 (UDCPR) also clearly define what is allowed in residential, commercial, and institutional zones.
However, the petition claims NMC has been bypassing these laws, justifying permissions based on an old 2002 observation in Vinayak vs City of Nagpur Corporation. That remark, the petitioner says, was misinterpreted and never meant to authorise hospitals in residential areas.
Residents Seek a Freeze on New Sanctions
The petition requests the High Court to:
- Stop all new permissions for hospitals, nursing homes, or commercial units in Dhantoli and Congress Nagar.
- Review existing sanctions where occupancy certificates are pending.
- Assess carrying capacity of roads and infrastructure before any further approvals.
The case highlights a growing concern in Nagpur — how fast urban expansion and lax enforcement are reshaping residential life.
Advocate Ashwin Deshpande is representing the petitioner. The High Court will now await replies from the concerned authorities.
