A land encroachment issue in Ward 52 of Coimbatore has come under judicial review, with the Madras High Court directing civic authorities to proceed with steps to restore land set aside for public use.

The matter relates to a 5.17-acre residential layout in EVR Nagar, where 50 plots were developed. As per layout norms, around 28 cents had been reserved as Open Space Reserved (OSR) land for common purposes such as a park and play area.

Officials said portions of this land were gradually occupied, with structures including a workshop and houses coming up. The Coimbatore Corporation has so far cleared 23 cents of the encroached area, while about 5 cents continue to remain under occupation.

A representation seeking removal of the remaining encroachments and restoration of the land was submitted to the Corporation Commissioner in December 2025. With no further action, the issue was taken to court.

During the hearing, the civic body informed the court that the land belongs to the Corporation and that encroachments had been identified. It said notices had been issued to occupants and field inspections carried out. Power supply to some of the structures was also disconnected as part of enforcement action.

The Corporation further said one of the structures had been vacated, though a few constructions still remain on the site.

Recording the submission, the court directed the Corporation to continue action in accordance with the law. It also underscored that land reserved for public use should be protected and used only for its designated purpose, while allowing those in occupation to produce valid documents, if any.