Residents and activists in Navi Mumbai have expressed concerns over a letter issued by the Navi Mumbai International Airport Pvt. Limited (NMIAL), which seeks detailed information about the height of buildings near the airport site. NMIAL cited a notification from the Ministry of Civil Aviation that mandates height restrictions within a 20 km radius of any aerodrome. Following an aeronautical survey conducted last year, NMIAL found several buildings in violation of these restrictions, causing unease among residents.
The letter has prompted fears among residents about possible action against buildings exceeding the permissible height limits. Some have questioned why NMIAL is directly approaching them instead of seeking data from the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) or City and Industrial Development Corporation (Cidco).
NMMC commissioner Kailas Shinde clarified that, as of now, no resident or housing society has formally approached the corporation with concerns regarding the NMIAL letter. He emphasized that this is currently just a study, and no action or directive has been issued.
Activist B N Kumar from the Alert Citizens Team criticized NMIAL for creating unnecessary tension. He recalled Cidco's earlier celebration when the Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR) was moved to Dhakale island in Belapur, easing height restrictions to 55 meters and allowing for taller constructions. Kumar called the NMIAL's actions "citizen-unfriendly."
Former standing committee chairperson Netra Shirke has also raised the issue with MLA Ganesh Naik, arguing that NMIAL should consult building records with NMMC rather than troubling residents, especially since many of the buildings were constructed long before the airport project began.
According to NMIAL, the notices sent to residents are part of a standard procedure to ensure compliance with The Aircraft Rules 1994 and to secure an aerodrome license. NMIAL has been tasked by Cidco to issue these notices, requesting building details such as top height, occupancy certificates, and coordinates for verification. After the verification, NMIAL will inform building owners of any necessary corrective actions to ensure compliance with aviation height regulations.
Residents will have the opportunity to present their case before any further steps are taken.
