Mumbai BMC Scrutinizes High-Rise Near INS Shikra and Land Reduction for Worli STP
The BMC’s Improvements Committee has expressed strong concerns over two recent decisions: the approval of a high-rise building near the Indian Navy’s key air base in South Mumbai and the reduction of land for the Worli Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) project. Members of the committee have called for a detailed investigation into these decisions, citing potential threats to national security and environmental concerns.
At the first meeting of the BMC’s Improvements Committee on Wednesday, members sharply criticized the civic authorities. They demanded to know whose instructions guided these sensitive decisions and called for strict action against any officials found complicit. Opposition parties insisted that accountability must be fixed and responsibility clearly established.
One of the primary issues discussed was the high-rise building near INS Shikra, the premier naval air station in South Mumbai. A petition was filed through a commanding officer seeking to halt work on the 20-storey structure within 500 meters of the base, citing the absence of a no-objection certificate (NOC). The matter was recently heard by the Bombay High Court, which reprimanded both the BMC and naval authorities.
Shiv Sena (UBT) corporator Sachin Padwal raised the issue for discussion in the Improvements Committee. He stated, “Under rules, no high-rise building is allowed within 500 meters of a key naval base, yet several structures have been erected in violation of this limit, posing a threat to national security. Over the past four years, even in the absence of elected representatives, some parties occupied land, while municipal officials reportedly prepared plans favoring developers. A similar situation exists near the INS Shikra naval facility, raising questions about the role of the civic authorities.” Padwal also demanded a probe and strict action against the officials responsible for this lapse.
Sanjog Kabre, Joint Commissioner (Improvements Department), assured the committee that he would gather information on the matter. Improvements Committee Chairperson Sandhya Doshi confirmed that the issue will be taken up again once the details are received.
Another significant concern was the drastic reduction of land for the Worli STP project. Congress group leader Ashraf Azmi slammed the BMC over the drastic reduction of land from 27,964.04 sq.m. to just 17,756.4 sq.m. “Two buildings in Worli were constructed blatantly violating rules and creating serious flood risks during the monsoon. While one building has been demolished, the other remains partially occupied,” Azmi said, demanding a full and detailed report on the civic body’s inaction.
Shiv Sena (UBT) corporator Sachin Padwal called it a major administrative failure, urging strict action against all officials involved. The BMC has stated that a detailed report will be submitted.
These issues highlight the ongoing challenges in urban planning and governance in Mumbai, where rapid development often conflicts with environmental and security concerns. The committee's demands for a thorough investigation and accountability reflect the need for transparent and responsible civic administration.
