Anil Parab, MLA from the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction), raised allegations in the Maharashtra Legislative Council regarding financial irregularities linked to the construction work of the Navi Mumbai International Airport. He claimed that the state government had incurred a loss of around Rs 496.90 crore during the land excavation and levelling work undertaken for the airport project.
While presenting figures in the House, Parab alleged that the contract for excavation and land levelling was awarded to Bharti Infrastructure. According to him, the company was assigned the task of excavating 1 crore 5 lakh 61 thousand 291 brass of earth. However, he stated that the government did not pay the company for 82 lakh brass, adding that relevant documents supporting this claim are available with the authorities. Based on the calculation of Rs 600 per brass, Parab alleged that the company had embezzled nearly Rs 496 crore of government funds.
Parab also alleged that the case highlights wider issues of mismanagement within agencies functioning under the Urban Development Department, including the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), and various municipal corporations and municipalities. He demanded that the matter be investigated by a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
The MLA further raised concerns about alleged illegal quarrying in several areas. He presented data suggesting that out of 80 quarries operating in Kunde Vahal, only two reportedly have the required permissions. He also claimed that all ten quarries in the Kharghar–Panvel area and another ten in Tembhurle were functioning illegally. According to Parab, similar illegal excavation activities were taking place in locations such as Mahad, Chirner, Mungoshi, Karjat, Khopoli and Mhasala.
In addition, Parab criticised the lifting of a transfer stay order involving officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). He said that Devendra Fadnavis had earlier directed that transfers of 130 BMC officers be halted due to alleged irregularities. However, Parab alleged that the newly appointed Mayor, Ritu Tawde, later lifted the stay on these transfers. According to him, this move amounted to a violation of the Chief Minister’s directive.
Source: Loksatta
