The Maharashtra government has initiated a fresh effort to resolve long-standing boundary disputes affecting seven traditional fishing settlements in Mumbai, appointing a nine-member committee to examine objections and recommend a way forward within three months.
Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced the panel, which will be headed by the Konkan Divisional Commissioner. Its primary responsibility is to review objections to boundary maps prepared by the Mumbai City Collector’s office and consult residents who filed complaints, along with representatives of Koli organisations, before recommending the final demarcations.
The settlements covered under the exercise are Sewri, Sion, Colaba, Mahim, including Mahim Market, Mandvi-Princess Dock, Worli and Cuffe Parade.
The absence of officially established boundaries has reportedly delayed development in these areas. In certain locations, authorities have been unable to undertake even road construction legally. Residents recognised as Mumbai’s original inhabitants have also faced difficulties in redeveloping their properties.
Besides the Konkan Divisional Commissioner, the committee comprises the Maharashtra Settlement Commissioner and Director of Land Records, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) city-in-charge Additional Commissioner, the Mumbai City and Mumbai Suburban Collectors, the BMC Chief Engineer, the Director of the Environment and Climate Change Department, and the Assistant Commissioner of Fisheries. The Konkan region’s Deputy Director of Land Records will act as member secretary.
The panel will scrutinise the existing maps and submitted objections, seeking assistance from relevant officials and specialists whenever necessary. It will also consider follow-up measures based on directions issued during a meeting chaired by the Revenue Department’s Additional Chief Secretary on September 9, 2024.
Bawankule said the Koli community is indigenous to Mumbai and protecting its rights remains a government priority. He added that the initiative followed directions from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, describing the matter as unresolved for 12 years.
The minister said the committee must conduct a transparent assessment and provide clear recommendations while safeguarding the community’s rights and protecting its land.
The findings are expected to guide the government’s decision on final boundary demarcation, potentially clearing an administrative hurdle for essential civic infrastructure and redevelopment across the seven Koliwadas.
Source: Urban Acres
