Activists oppose proposed development on CRZ land in Nerul, Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai: The proposed development of residential and commercial buildings in the pockets of Nerul sector 60 has evoked strong opposition from environmentalists. A part of the 27,000 sqm plot falls under the Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) for which clearance has been sought from Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA). Activists have raised concerns regarding the issue. MCZMA, last month had deferred the matter, seeking the project details on the landward side on the existing road.
In a meeting on Jan 19, the project was described as a "proposed construction". Among the three types of towers that received consent to establish on March 13, 2020, two towers and a clubhouse fall partially within the CRZ area as per the Coastal Zone Management Plan-2019. The relevant clause under CRZ notification 2019 mentions "Construction of buildings for residential purpose, schools, hospitals, institutions, offices, public places, etc, shall be permitted only on the landward side of the existing road, or on the landward side of the existing authorised fixed structures: provided that no permission for construction of buildings shall be given on landward side of any new roads which are constructed on the seaward side of an existing road." Experts have asked the project proponent to clarify whether the project site is situated on the landward side of existing road or on existing authorised structure. Environmental activist Sunil Agarwal alleged, "The project illegalities include substantial construction without CRZ clearance."