Uttan is a coastal town located just north of Mumbai in the Thane District of Maharashtra, renowned for its natural beauty. It falls under the jurisdiction of the Mira Bhayander Municipal Corporation (MBMC).

The Uttan village, situated in the Shire zone, is primarily used for agriculture. During the monsoon season, rainwater flows from beside the Margale Talao through a naturally formed canal, providing water for both farming and the domestic needs of the villagers year-round. Locally, this canal is referred to as “Shravnan” and is popular among fishermen, as well as being utilised by farmers to cultivate paddy and vegetables.

In a monthly meeting held on March 5, 2024, farmers from Uttan raised concerns about the encroachment of the canal by a local builder, who had filled it with rocks and soil. The aftermath of this encroachment posed a serious threat, as the rainwater that once flowed through the canal could now flood the agricultural fields and even enter their homes. The CSA project coordinator from Dharavi Island encouraged the farmers to meet with the builder to discuss the issue.

After the farmers met with the builder, he promised to restore the canal by the end of April 2024. However, when May 2024 arrived, the farmers noticed that the builder had not fulfilled his promise. Consequently, they decided to take formal action. They drafted an application, gathered signatures, and submitted their complaint, along with the 7/12 extract, to the MBMC commissioner, Tahsildar, Talathi, and the local police station.

Following continuous follow-ups with government officials, a site visit was conducted on July 12, 2024, by the MBMC commissioner and the Health Department. The very next day, the MBMC Health Department removed the encroachment, cleared the soil, and restored the canal for the farmers.

The farmers have awakened to their issues and are now understanding the process of resolution. Unity among the farmers has led to collective actions regarding these issues, along with effective follow-up. Conservation efforts for natural water resources have been implemented, and the community will once again make use of these vital resources.