While that is expected, it is surprising that authorities and politicians are unaware about what is going on in their own area. In the report, Corporator M Narwekar says that he has not been to the slum, but if there are illegal encroachments, they need to be dealt with. K Dighavkar, Assistant Municipal Commissioner, A-ward, states that the slum is on collector’s land while the collector says there has been no complaint raised with her.

The answers show the rigmarole that is typical of the system. It is also shocking that nobody seems familiar with the slum or the area. Is there a reluctance to tackle the issue because slum dwellers are a vote bank? The tetrapod claim too is alarming, as this kind of mindless reclamation may simply mean altering the course of nature and could lead to large-scale ramifications. Leaders and civic representatives must familiarise themselves with the area to say the least. Investigations of claims can follow. To pass the buck, claim ignorance or decide to act only on specific complaints is specious. Know what is happening on your turf, and take action if needed.