The Urban Development Department (UDD) of Maharashtra issued two significant notifications on 15 October 2024, approving the modification proposal for certain revenue villages to establish “KSC New Town.” These notifications designate the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) as the New Town Development Authority (NTDA), replacing previous authorities and detailing the NTDA’s responsibilities in planning, acquiring, and developing the region.
Key Responsibilities and Authority of MMRDA in KSC New Town
MMRDA’s role as the NTDA includes several key responsibilities. First, any other Special Planning Authority or Local Authority operating in the KSC New Town area prior to this notification will no longer function in that capacity. MMRDA is now solely responsible for performing functions previously managed by other authorities.
Under this new mandate, MMRDA will draft and publish detailed Planning Proposals along with Development Control & Promotion Regulations specific to KSC New Town. These proposals must be submitted to the government for approval under the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act (MRTP). Until these new regulations are officially sanctioned, the existing UDCPR guidelines of the Regional Plan will apply in KSC New Town.
MMRDA Empowered for Land Acquisition and Budget Allocation
MMRDA also has the authority to acquire land within the notified area, allowing the NTDA to undertake necessary land acquisitions to support infrastructure development. The authority is also responsible for making budget provisions for these acquisitions, which is essential for ensuring the financial readiness to support development activities within KSC New Town.
Changes in Governance for NAINA and Khopata New Town Notified Area
The same notification on 15 October 2024 also impacts other areas under the jurisdiction of the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO). CIDCO, which served as the Special Planning Authority for the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA), and parts of Khopata New Town, has been relieved of these responsibilities. This change is part of a larger shift in planning and development priorities to enhance connectivity, infrastructure, and economic growth in the area.
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The Urban Development Department has withdrawn CIDCO’s authority over 80 revenue villages within NAINA (specified in Schedule-I) and 33 villages within the Khopata New Town Notified Area (specified in Schedule-II). This means that any planning proposals created by CIDCO for these regions are now withdrawn under Section 34(2) of the MRTP Act. Land use in these areas will revert to the provisions of the sanctioned Regional Plan and UDCPR regulations, which govern development and land utilization.
MTHL’s Role in KSC New Town Development
The creation of KSC New Town is partly tied to the anticipated economic benefits of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), also known as Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Trans Harbour Link. This infrastructure project, developed by MMRDA, is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, thereby enhancing connectivity and economic growth in the region. By designating MMRDA as the NTDA for MTHL, the government aims to capture and leverage the land value enhancement in areas influenced by MTHL, making the project economically viable and boosting the regional economy.
