Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik has opposed the state government’s proposed Urban Renewal Scheme (URS) for cluster redevelopment in Navi Mumbai, stating that the initiative should not move forward until a comprehensive impact assessment is completed. He cautioned that large-scale redevelopment could significantly increase the city’s population and put pressure on existing civic infrastructure and public facilities.
Naik said unregulated construction and higher Floor Space Index (FSI) allowances, without adequate infrastructure planning, could undermine Navi Mumbai’s planned development. Speaking after the city received recognition as India’s cleanest city, he warned that its achievement could be at risk if cluster redevelopment was permitted without proper safeguards.
He also questioned the inclusion of buildings that are neither structurally dangerous nor more than 30 years old, referring to certain structures in Simplex Colony, Ghansoli. According to him, indiscriminate approvals could lead to overcrowding, increased traffic congestion and additional pressure on internal roads, water supply and other essential services. He maintained that legal action would be considered if necessary.
Meanwhile, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) general body passed a resolution opposing cluster redevelopment approvals by 60 votes to 31. The civic body has called for a citywide carrying capacity assessment before the state government clears pending proposals and authorised legal action, including approaching the Bombay High Court.
The resolution directs the municipal administration to communicate its objections to the Maharashtra government. The move follows an October 15, 2026, directive from the Urban Development Department asking NMMC to process cluster redevelopment proposals awaiting consideration by the high-powered committee.
Leader of the House Sagar Naik said granting additional construction potential and financial incentives without assessing infrastructure capacity could threaten the city’s planned character. He highlighted existing water supply constraints in Ghansoli and questioned the need for a separate scheme when redevelopment could be undertaken under regular development control regulations.
NMMC officials clarified that structurally dangerous C-1 category buildings can continue to be redeveloped under existing regulations. However, Ganesh Naik maintained that such cases should not become grounds for approving every pending cluster development proposal without a comprehensive assessment.
Source: Times of India
Pic Credit: Loksatta
