Nagpur MIHAN-SEZ Withdraws 140 Acres from DLF

MIHAN-SEZ's Long-Standing Land Issue with DLF takes a serious turn

In Maharashtra, the Multi Modal International Cargo Hub and Airport at Nagpur (MIHAN) Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has reportedly requested the Gurugram-based DLF to return the 140-acre land initially allocated to them in 2007. This land, intended for an IT Park's construction in Nagpur, has seen no development activity for over a decade and a half.

A Decade + of Dormancy

The authorities at the SEZ expressed their concerns, noting the absence of any construction on the allotted land even after 15 years. V Sraman, the Development Commissioner of MIHAN-SEZ, conveyed that notices were issued to DLF, particularly in light of audit recommendations advocating the reclamation of unused land. He mentioned that while DLF initially expressed intentions to surrender the land, they later indicated a reconsideration of development plans on the site. Sraman emphasized the need for a concrete plan from DLF for any permitted activities within the SEZ.

Comparative Development Status of Other Companies

The article also highlights that alongside DLF, several other companies received land allocations but have shown limited to no progress in developing IT parks. In contrast, companies like Infosys, Infocepts, TCS, and HCL are already operating their units within the SEZ.

DLF's Response is apparently been awaited on the said developments while writing this report.

Understanding MIHAN's Broad Framework

The MIHAN project encompasses a vast area, featuring the expansion of the existing Nagpur International Airport. A significant portion is dedicated to the SEZ, with additional areas allocated for non-SEZ purposes including residential and retail development. Since 2007, there were high expectations of an IT boom in Nagpur, with projections of substantial annual income generation and employment opportunities. However, other cities like Pune, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru have since outpaced Nagpur in IT infrastructure development.

Current Status of Land Utilization in MIHAN-SEZ

According to the SEZ authorities, a fraction of the land is actively utilized, while a majority remains vacant. Some parcels house units either inactive or operating without official sanction. The Maharashtra Airport Development Corporation (MADC), responsible for the MIHAN project, has successfully leased land to major IT and blue-chip companies for diverse developmental purposes.