City and Industrial Development Corporation (Cidco) has issued 490 notices to unauthorized buildings across Navi Mumbai between January and March 2024. This crackdown, led by the chief controller of unauthorized constructions, marks a significant effort to uphold regulatory compliance and urban planning standards within the region.
The highest concentration of illegal constructions identified is in Nerul, totaling 108, followed by 76 in Uran and 62 in Ghansoli. Additional hotspots include Pushpak Nagar with 56 cases, Koparkhairane with 53, and Panvel with 36, among others. Cidco’s initiative under the Maharashtra Regional Town Planning Act-1966 involves publishing detailed notices encompassing construction status, area, and ownership particulars, thereby enhancing transparency and public awareness. Legal experts and public interest litigators (PIL) have advocated for preemptive measures such as early-stage demolition actions during foundation work, accompanied by prominent signages indicating Cidco ownership.
Despite these measures, critics and activists argue that the reported numbers merely scratch the surface of a larger issue, suggesting that unauthorized constructions in Navi Mumbai are more widespread than officially acknowledged. The broader implications extend beyond regulatory compliance to financial prudence for potential property buyers. Cidco has cautioned the public against purchasing properties from these unauthorized constructions, highlighting the risks of legal repercussions and financial losses associated with such transactions.
As Navi Mumbai continues to evolve as a vibrant urban hub, the imperative for robust governance and adherence to planning regulations remains paramount. Cidco’s concerted efforts underscore its commitment to ensuring sustainable urban development while addressing the immediate challenges posed by unauthorized constructions. Arguments heard that such proactive steps, would serve as deterrents and mitigate future violations, safeguarding both public interest and urban planning integrity.
