Navi Mumbai: Farmers in Uran Protest Against CIDCO’s Land Acquisition Notification

Uran, 1st January 2024: In a recent development, the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) issued a revised notification on December 22, outlining plans for the acquisition of land in survey number 1 thousand 327 across the villages of Chanje, Nagaon, Kegaon, Bokadvira, Pagote, and Phunde. However, the announcement has sparked strong opposition from farmers in the region.

The revised notification by CIDCO, issued without prior consultation with farmers or the announcement of any specific project, has led to widespread anger among the affected population. In a meeting held in Nagaon on Saturday evening, farmers unanimously decided to take to the streets and organize protests against CIDCO’s unilateral decision.

Farmers argue that CIDCO has not announced any specific project or scheme under the guise of development, and the lack of transparency in its plans has left them dissatisfied. The initial notification from CIDCO faced strong opposition from farmers, and despite this resistance, a revised notification has been issued, now covering an expanded set of survey numbers.

The affected land hosts traditional farmhouses that have been part of the region for 70-80 years. Additionally, residents who migrated to Uran for employment have established permanent homes on this land. The acquisition plans by CIDCO appear to overlook these structures, causing discontent among citizens and farmers alike.

CIDCO is facing challenges in acquiring sufficient land for the allotment of twelve and a half per cent of developed plots in the Dronagiri node. As a solution, CIDCO has issued notifications for land acquisition in Chanje, Nagaon-Kegaon, and other villages. However, the acquisition process, particularly affecting areas with existing residential houses, has met strong opposition from farmers and property owners.

Despite objections lodged with CIDCO against the initial notification, the revised version has not appeased the concerns of the farmers. They remain resolute in their opposition, expressing displeasure at CIDCO’s approach to land acquisition in their communities.