MMRDA Confirms Development of THIRD MUMBAI - Maharashtra's Ambitious New Township Plan

The Maharashtra government has announced the development of a "Third Mumbai," spearheaded by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), despite strong opposition from local farmers. This township will be developed under the New Town Development Authority (NTDA) in Raigad district, beyond the Nhava-Sewri Sea Link, known as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL).

The plan was confirmed on October 15, the day of the Assembly elections announcement.

Massive Development Area: 323 Sq. Km and 124 Villages 

The Third Mumbai project will cover a vast 323 sq. km area, encompassing 124 villages. These include:

80 villages from the special Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA) under CIDCO. 

33 villages from Khopta New Town. 

Two villages under the Mumbai Metropolitan Regional Plan. Nine villages under the Raigad Regional Plan.

This decision has raised concerns among developers who had already purchased land in the NAINA and Bopta regions, as well as local farmers who fear land acquisition without adequate compensation.

Land Development Restrictions 

From October 15, 2024, landowners, farmers, and developers in these 124 villages will require permission from MMRDA to develop their land. This restriction has sparked unrest, with landowners warning of potential protests against the government's decision.

Land Acquisition Challenges and Farmer Resistance

Land acquisition for this massive project presents significant hurdles. The new land acquisition law makes the process expensive for both MMRDA and the government. Past efforts by CIDCO to return 22.5% of acquired land to farmers in Navi Mumbai met with limited success. Similarly, CIDCO’s offer of a 40% land return in the NAINA region failed to kickstart development even after 11 years. Farmers in the NAINA region are now unwilling to give up their land, posing a major challenge for MMRDA.

Farmers Demand Alternative Development Approach 

Farmers, particularly those in the 124 affected villages, have expressed deep dissatisfaction with the Maharashtra government's decision. They argue that the development should be handled by a Special Planning Authority under Section 40, not MMRDA. Many are planning protests, citing concerns over forced land acquisition and the government's harsh approach under Section 113 (1).

Facts Figures:

• Project Area: 323 sq. km
• Number of Villages Affected: 124
• NAINA Region Villages: 80 
• Khopta New Town Villages: 33 
• Other Regions: 11 villages (under Mumbai Metropolitan and Raigad Plans)
• Land Return Offers: 22.5% by CIDCO (Navi Mumbai), 40% for NAINA (unsuccessful)
• MMRDA Role: New Town Development Authority (NTDA)
• Date of Announcement: October 15, 2024 
• Opposition: Farmers protesting under Section 113 (1)
• Land Development Restrictions: MMRDA permission required