A controversy has erupted in the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) after corporators questioned the grant of ₹2,800 crore worth of Transferable Development Rights (TDR) to a private company against disputed forest land. During the general body meeting on Tuesday, corporators raised concerns over the legality of the decision, alleging it could strain civic infrastructure, reduce government revenue and impact the environment.
The dispute involves nearly 193 acres at Chitalsar Pada-Manpada, acquired under the Maharashtra Private Forests (Acquisition) Act, 1975. The forest department claims the land falls within the eco-sensitive zone of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Following a prolonged legal battle, the Bombay High Court in February 2026 directed TMC to issue TDR worth ₹2,800 crore to D Dahyabhai & Co Pvt Ltd for around 100 acres reserved as a public park.
Corporators alleged that the proposed TDR translates into nearly 7.4 lakh sq m of FSI, far exceeding the original proposal of around 32,000 sq m. They demanded clarity on the legal provisions and the potential revenue loss.
Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao denied any wrongdoing, stating the forest department failed to challenge the High Court order within the stipulated time. He assured that no development would be permitted on the land and the park reservation would remain unchanged.
Source: Hindustan Times
