At the moment, the removal of encroachments is tackled by multiple agencies -- the BMC, Collector and Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Agency. This hampers the removal of encroachments, particularly due to confusion in ownership of lands and premises. ``All agencies should function under the direct control of the commissioner, who will be reponsible for the removal of encroachments,'' said Rane.

The government will also amend the BMC Act as well as the Bombay Police Act to grant more powers to the corporation as well as police officials. Once section 314 of the BMC act is amended, there willbe no need to give a notice for the removal of encroachments as required under the existing legislation, said Rane. The CM also proposed to amend section 57 of the Bombay Police Act to provide for externment of habitual encroachers.