CIDCO’s “Negative Attitude” Under Fire as NAINA Project Stalls Again (Copy)
Published 6 Oct 2025, 8:30 PM IST
Key Points
- The Issue: The government has proposed to merge 14 villages with the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC). These villages were previously kept out of the NMMC limits due to local opposition. Now, a new plan to include them again has reignited controversy.
- The Conflict: The clash is mainly between Navi Mumbai BJP and Shiv Sena Leaders. BJP claims the merger is being pushed by Thane’s political leaders for their own benefit. Shiv Sena, however, supports the inclusion, saying it will help in equal development.
- BJP’s Allegations: Former BJP corporators Suraj Patil, Netra Shirke, and Aparna Gavate are leading the protest. They argue that the merger will damage Navi Mumbai’s planned growth and infrastructure balance. According to them, the move is more about political expansion than actual urban improvement.
- Counter-Accusations: BJP has accused Shiv Sena of several issues during their past governance. Misusing funds and water resources meant for Navi Mumbai during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ignoring local youth (Bhumiputras) in job opportunities. Neglecting or even damaging industrial areas under MIDC instead of improving them.
What it means for Navi Mumbai
If this merger of 14 villages goes forward, it will expand the NMMC’s boundary and bring thousands of new residents under its governance. However, this expansion also brings serious concerns about planning and resources.
Experts and local leaders warn that Navi Mumbai’s planned structure could be disturbed. The city was designed by CIDCO with strict zoning for residential, commercial, and industrial use, a balance that may be disrupted if unplanned areas are suddenly added.
There are also fears about infrastructure pressure, including water supply, waste management, and road maintenance. The merger could also slow down current civic projects, as funds and attention get divided between old and new areas.
For residents of both Navi Mumbai and the 14 villages, this decision will directly affect their future development, civic amenities, and governance. The political infighting shows how development planning and political influence are closely linked and how one decision can shape the city’s long-term future.
Main News
The 14 villages in question were once part of Navi Mumbai’s original plan but were excluded after residents opposed NMMC control many years ago. Now, the government’s attempt to bring them back under city limits has restarted an old debate.
Why BJP is Opposing the Merger
Local BJP leaders say the merger is being forced by Thane’s political leadership to extend their influence over Navi Mumbai. They argue that if the villages are added without proper planning, it will create confusion in administration and hurt the city’s image as a well-planned, modern urban hub.
Shiv Sena’s Stand
Shiv Sena supports the merger, claiming it will bring equal facilities and urban growth to nearby villages that have been left out of NMMC’s reach. The party believes this step will connect rural areas to the city’s infrastructure and help them progress.
The Political Angle
The issue has now become a battle for control over Navi Mumbai’s future. Both parties are accusing each other of mismanagement, neglect, and using the merger for political mileage. As the conflict continues, residents remain uncertain about how their civic life and development will be affected in the coming years.
