‘Raze inner structures to secure Shakti Mills’

Assistant official liquidator Rupa Sutar observed that anti-social elements could use the two-storey internal structure as a hide-out. If the structures are removed and the premises have an open ground,it would act as a deterrent to criminal activities,she said.

Officers from the N M Joshi Marg police station showed the team around the mill that still contains the vast skeletal structure of the erstwhile synthetic yarn mill and two wells. Police officers said the compound,which has more than one entry points,is increasingly becoming dangerous.

Sutar said the bushes should be removed and the ground levelled on priority. She suggested that the state Public Works Department (PWD) be assigned the task to avoid involvement of multiple agencies. The officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) G South ward were asked to give the necessary permissions for clearing the premises.

Structural engineer Chetan Raikar,who had earlier submitted a report for the demolition of a dilapidated compound wall,however,said the aerial roots of trees that had covered the wall should not be removed as they could be holding up the other walls. He added that the walls were highly dilapidated and could crumble any time.

Ramprasad,one of the three private guards on morning shift,told the team that the green cover was home to snakes and the guards stayed at a distance where they could hear each other. He said more guards would be needed at night. Sutar said at least five or six guards may be required.

Inspector A S Mane suggested that the liquidator appoint trained private guards as they would be better equipped to secure the premises.

After a discussion with officers of the Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport (BEST),the team felt that it would be faster to instal halogen lamps on the compound walls instead of a high-mast pole in the centre of the mill.

PWD officers said they would calculate the electricity load of the premises and inform BEST. The process of lighting up the premises would take approximately a month-and-a-half,PWD officers said.

Sutar will submit minutes of the inspection meeting to the court on September 23.

mayura.janwalkar@expressindia.com