The Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced the release of its revised and comprehensive draft Development Plan (DP), marking a significant milestone under the Maharashtra Regional & Town Planning Act, 1966.
This development is noteworthy, considering that the PMC achieved this feat in just five years—an impressive turnaround compared to the 30-year timeline of the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation’s (NMMC) DP. The newly unveiled DP aims to address and catalyse growth across Panvel’s diverse areas. Approximately 70% of Panvel’s jurisdiction falls under the Navi Mumbai planning agency, CIDCO, which has already seen substantial development.
In contrast, the remaining regions, including former council areas and several villages, have lagged in progress. The new DP is poised to accelerate development in these underdeveloped zones. The DP is expected to significantly boost infrastructure and facilities in Panvel’s rural areas. With a substantial deposit exceeding INR 1,200 crore, the PMC is well-equipped to fund and implement the proposed developments. This financial backing is anticipated to play a crucial role in realising the ambitious goals outlined in the plan.
The draft DP was published within eight years of the PMC’s establishment in October 2016, and less than five years after the civic general body passed a resolution to prepare it in September 2019. This swift progress is a notable achievement, especially in contrast to the neighbouring Navi Mumbai, where the DP took three decades to complete. The preparation of the DP was overseen by the former PMC commissioner, who appointed full-time town planning officials and ensured rigorous administrative follow-ups.
The draft was presented by the deputy director of town planning to the municipal commissioner on October 5, 2020, and subsequently made available for public review and feedback on August 8, 2024. Residents have until September 8, 2024, to submit their suggestions and objections regarding the draft DP, which will be accessible at civic and government offices and available for purchase on the PMC website. Following this period, the plan will be forwarded to the state government for final approval.
“This DP is crucial for the strategic development and growth of the region. I will be leading a committee to review all feedback and conduct hearings on the objections raised,” stated a PMC official. “After integrating the received inputs, we will submit the revised plan to the state government to ensure timely approval.”
