– Residents Allege Encroachment, Safety Risks, and Regulatory Violations; Call for Urgent Action by Authorities
Nagpur :- A storm is brewing in the upscale Civil Lines area of Nagpur as residents of Prestige Apartments have lodged a sweeping and strongly worded complaint against M/s Heritage Hotel, alleging a litany of violations ranging from brazen encroachments and fire hazards to environmental degradation and illicit alcohol sales.
In a joint complaint addressed to over 11 top civic, law enforcement, and regulatory authorities, including the Municipal Commissioner, Commissioner of Police, Pollution Control Board, Excise Department, and even the High Court Registrar, the residents have painted a disturbing picture of what they call a “disaster in waiting.”
Encroachment on All Four Sides
According to the complaint, the hotel—located at Plot No. 3, Mouza Sitabuldi, Jaika Layout—has illegally occupied all its side margins. Multiple structures, including full-fledged restaurants such as Kathi Crossing and Oasis, have reportedly been constructed within setback areas. Kitchens using LPG cylinders are said to operate perilously close to adjacent residential buildings, including multi-story constructions resting against compound walls.
“The hotel has not left a single inch of breathing space. If a fire were to break out, there is no way fire tenders could even access the premises,” said one of the residents on condition of anonymity.
No Parking, No Order
Residents claim the hotel has zero designated parking space, despite having 26 guest rooms, banquet halls, restaurants, and a permit room. Instead, valet staff allegedly park vehicles on footpaths and outside homes, blocking access and creating traffic bottlenecks. Chained barricades on footpaths reportedly prevent public use.
“Minor accidents have become common. We live in fear, not comfort,” said a local resident.
Fire and Pollution Time Bomb
Perhaps the most alarming claim is the serious fire risk posed by the storage of hundreds of LPG cylinders, makeshift kitchens, and illegally installed transformers—one even said to be placed directly on a public footpath. Poor fire safety infrastructure and lack of accessible exits have created what residents describe as a “ticking bomb.”
Further, the hotel is accused of causing constant noise, air, and water pollution. Chimney fumes allegedly enter homes; untreated wastewater floods apartment compounds; and terrace pubs play loud music till late into the night.
Excise Law Violations
The complaint also alleges illegal operation of multiple liquor-serving areas beyond the one license granted to the establishment. Alcohol is reportedly served in hotel rooms, banquet halls, and even in parked cars outside the premises. A rooftop bar called House of Beers allegedly operates without a license and serves hookah, in violation of state excise rules.
“We see drunk customers urinating on the streets, smoking outside our gates, and sometimes even being violent with residents,” said one complainant.
Environmental and Legal Breaches
The residents assert that the hotel’s operations violate multiple civic norms, fire safety codes, environmental regulations, and building permits. They argue that the authorities have remained passive despite the hotel being located within walking distance of the NMC headquarters, Sadar Police Station, and other key offices.
Call for Accountability
The complainants have warned that if no corrective action is taken promptly, they will be compelled to move the judiciary and the National Green Tribunal to ensure the safety of the neighborhood and uphold the rule of law.
“This is not just about nuisance; it’s about life and death. We demand immediate enforcement of law and demolition of illegal structures,” said a representative of the residents’ committee.
As of the time of this report, none of the authorities addressed in the complaint have issued a public response.
The story is developing and will be updated as and when responses from concerned departments are received.