CIDCO Targets Illegal Constructions Across Navi Mumbai
The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) has intensified its crackdown on illegal constructions and encroachments across Navi Mumbai, Panvel, Ulwe, and Dronagiri. By mid-2025, the agency has already demolished around 2,200 unauthorized structures spread across 56 acres of land valued at over ₹2,500 crore. This operation is part of a broader initiative to clear 300 identified sites during the year, with nearly half of them already addressed.
Earlier this month, CIDCO’s demolition brought down a residential building in Kharghar that housed 90 illegally built flats—many of which had been sold to unsuspecting homebuyers. The land alone in this case was valued at approximately ₹300 crore. Such incidents have raised serious concerns about fraudulent property sales and the need for vigilance among buyers.
To maintain transparency and warn the public, CIDCO has issued notices under the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices (MRTP) Act to those involved in illegal encroachments. These notices, along with names of violators, are being made public to deter further unauthorized development and protect innocent investors.
A History of Action and a Warning to Buyers
This year’s operations build on the agency’s sustained efforts in 2024, when CIDCO’s Controller of Unauthorised Constructions (CUC) carried out 547 demolition drives, removing 2,102 illegal structures and reclaiming 51 acres of land worth ₹2,200 crore.
CIDCO’s demolition officially emphasize that such land is not meant for private profit but is often designated for essential public infrastructure. “CIDCO has always taken strong action against such encroachments and unauthorised constructions. Those who have usurped land from CIDCO are on our radar and our priority targets right now,” said Suresh Mengde, CIDCO’s Chief Vigilance Officer.
Mengde urged potential property buyers to exercise due diligence before making purchases, especially in Navi Mumbai or the NAINA (Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area) region. He advised verifying all construction-related documents to avoid falling victim to fraudulent deals. “This will help them secure their investments and not be deceived into buying unauthorised property,” he noted.
Clearing Space for Future Development
CIDCO’s demolition drive is closely tied to its future development goals. With the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport expected to boost regional growth, CIDCO has planned a host of theme-based international-standard projects within the NAINA region. These include Educity, Medicity, a logistics hub, and more.
A City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) official explained that the reclaimed land will not only be used for public benefit but also serve as a financial resource. “The intensified drive will help CIDCO recover its land for commercial and social projects. It will also help generate funds through the sale of these plots freed of encroachments and illegal constructions,” he said. Once cleared, the plots are expected to be auctioned, ensuring that CIDCO has the necessary funds to pursue its ambitious infrastructure and development plans.
With half of the targeted CIDCO’s demolition already completed, its determined effort continues to reshape the urban landscape of Navi Mumbai while laying the groundwork for its next phase of planned development.
