The Thane Municipal Corporation’s (TMC) proposed Floor Space Index (FSI) of 12 for its cluster development programme has triggered strong opposition, with political leaders and former corporators warning that such a high development potential could significantly increase population density and place additional pressure on the city’s infrastructure.
Opposition leaders have claimed that the proposal could result in Thane’s population increasing nearly fivefold. They have also alleged that the ruling parties and the civic administration are effectively planning to “sell the city” to developers. However, the civic body has not yet finalised the plan.
For implementing the cluster development programme, TMC formed a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), Thane Cluster Development and Area Improvement Company Limited (TCDAICL), in partnership with MahaPreit, a state government undertaking involved in infrastructure and emerging technology projects. The SPV was incorporated on October 17, 2024, with MahaPreit holding a 74% stake and TMC owning the remaining 26%.
Manoj Pradhan, president of the NCP (SP) Thane unit, said, “The municipal commissioner admitted to the plan (of the FSI) during a meeting with group leaders. Cluster development with FSI 12 will encompass 3,000 acres in Thane to facilitate the redevelopment and rehabilitation of old and dilapidated structures. The proposed FSI could increase Thane’s population nearly fivefold when the city is already grappling with water shortage, congestion on roads, sanitation issues and other civic problems.”
“Land price in Thane is among the most expensive in the region. If an FSI of 12 is being granted, it essentially indicates that Thane is being put up for sale. The municipal commissioner should issue a white paper on this matter,” he added.
Former TMC corporator Adv Sanjay Pandurang Ghadigaonkar called for detailed assessments before approving large-scale development. “High FSI/ TDR does not merely mean increased construction, it also leads to higher population density and greater pressure on water supply, sewage systems, waste management, transportation, healthcare, fire safety and the environment,” Ghadigaonkar said.
He demanded mandatory Population Impact Assessment, Infrastructure Impact Assessment, Ecological Carrying Capacity Assessment and Cumulative Impact Assessment for major projects.
The concerns come amid existing water shortages in Thane. The civic commissioner had earlier stated that the city was facing a deficit of 31 MLD.
Deputy mayor Krishna Patil said: “I am not aware an FSI of 12 being officially declared for the cluster development project. In my opinion, an FSI of 12 is not feasible, as it is too high for a city like Thane.”
Source: Hindustan Times
