Navi Mumbai, the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) is facing allegations of involvement in the illegal reclamation of the ecologically sensitive Lotus Lake located in Nerul’s Sector 27.
Activists and residents have raised concerns over the transparency and legality of CIDCO’s actions, prompting calls for a thorough investigation.
The controversy erupted when a portion of the metal sheet fencing, installed by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) in May 2025 following a Bombay High Court order, was found removed. The fencing had been put in place to prevent encroachments and protect the lake from illegal activities. Residents reported that individuals posing as contractors were seen removing the fencing, claiming that CIDCO had issued orders to fill the lake.
Advocate Pradeep Patole, who filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in 2021 to protect the Lotus Lake, expressed concerns over the recent developments. He alleged that CIDCO had been attempting to fill the lake with earth excavated from the Ulwe Hill for the Navi Mumbai International Airport project. Patole further claimed that vital information from the Raigad collector was withheld, leading to the issuance of the order. He emphasized that CIDCO was obligated to inform the Raigad collector about the lake’s significance as a vital waterbody.
The Bombay High Court had previously directed the Thane collector to ascertain the nature of the land and its use before it was handed over to CIDCO. However, discrepancies and doubts have emerged regarding the authenticity of the lake’s wetland status, with the state Environment and Climate Change ministry raising concerns .
In response to the allegations, CIDCO officials have denied any knowledge of such directives and have stated that they are committed to adhering to all legal and environmental regulations. However, the lack of clarity and transparency in the matter has intensified public scrutiny.
The Lotus Lake, spread over two hectares in Nerul, is recognized as a wetland under the National Wetlands Inventory Atlas. It has been a subject of conservation efforts by residents and environmentalists due to its ecological significance. The recent developments have raised questions about the commitment of government agencies to protect and preserve such vital natural resources.
As the controversy unfolds, residents and activists are calling for a comprehensive investigation into CIDCO’s role in the reclamation of Lotus Lake. They demand accountability and transparency from all involved parties to ensure that the lake’s ecological integrity is maintained for future generations.
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