December 6, 2025: The Airoli–Kalwa elevated rail corridor has encountered a fresh setback, with the Thane unit of the NCP–Sharadchandra Pawar (NCP-SP) blocking ongoing survey work until the state government issues a written rehabilitation guarantee for all project-affected slum dwellers. The intervention adds to the project’s long history of delays and administrative hurdles.
The dispute escalated after local NCP-SP leaders insisted that the government must formalise its rehabilitation commitments before any further progress is made. They have demanded a clear, written rehabilitation plan, along with proper compensation and assured relocation for families who stand to lose their homes due to the project. Party representatives have warned that surveys and preparatory work “cannot proceed without this assurance,” pressing the administration to take immediate action.
The elevated rail corridor, designed to improve connectivity between Airoli and Kalwa, has already been delayed multiple times. The latest roadblock threatens to push timelines further, potentially raising project costs and complicating coordination between agencies. The corridor is expected to significantly benefit commuters across Thane and Navi Mumbai, making the current impasse a concern for thousands of daily travellers.
Rehabilitation remains a central issue due to the sizable number of slum dwellers directly affected by the proposed construction. Ensuring secure housing, safeguarding livelihoods and maintaining stability in affected communities are crucial for the project’s smooth execution. Officials acknowledge that rehabilitation is a sensitive and essential component for major urban infrastructure efforts, particularly in densely populated areas.
Authorities are now expected to open discussions with NCP-SP leaders to reach a workable agreement. A formal rehabilitation plan is likely to be issued to address the concerns raised, after which survey activities may resume.
The latest standoff highlights the ongoing challenges Mumbai faces in balancing rapid infrastructure expansion with the need for fair and transparent rehabilitation processes. Resolving the dispute swiftly will be critical to keeping the Airoli–Kalwa corridor on track and ensuring the project progresses without further setbacks.
Source: India Herald
