In a recent revelation regarding the New Draft Development Plan by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC), citizens have raised concerns about a significant discrepancy between the English and Marathi versions of Notice No. NMMC/TPD/ADTP /413/2024, pertaining to the publication of modifications in the Draft Development Plan under section 28(4) of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act.

Residents within the jurisdiction of the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation have identified a flaw in the proposed Development Plan, specifically related to the marking of plot numbers intended for residential complexes. The NMMC has presented numerous changes to the state government concerning the development plan of Navi Mumbai. However, a discrepancy has emerged between the English and Marathi versions. While the English version refers to Sector 52 (DPS Lake) in Nerul, the Marathi version mentions Sector 52A. Furthermore, the English version states that "the land shown as waterbody in Sector 52 is now included in Residential Zone," whereas the Marathi version refers to Sector 52A in the same context.

This inconsistency has led to confusion among residents since the release of the draft Development Plan. Concerned residents of Nerul view this as either a grave oversight or a deliberate attempt to obscure the presence of water bodies in Sectors 52 and 52A, Nerul.

Expressing opposition to the Development Plan, Sunil Agarwal, a resident of NRI Complex in Seawoods, Nerul, emphasized the need to protest against the proposed changes, particularly the observed discrepancy between the Marathi and English versions. Similarly, Rajeev Sinha, a retired IAS officer residing in Yayati Housing Complex 58A, Nerul, expressed concerns that the alterations suggested by NMMC, at the behest of CIDCO, would negatively impact green belts, mangroves, and water bodies, leading to irreparable damage to the ecology of Navi Mumbai and potential flooding during monsoon seasons.

Residents, including Chandramohan Gaikwad from Nerul, believe that this discrepancy not only questions the diligence of the NMMC's Town Planning Department but also raises doubts about the integrity of the entire planning exercise.

In response to these concerns, citizens are joining forces to draft and email a robust protest letter to the NMMC Commission, highlighting the apparent discrepancy deliberately or inadvertently present in the draft development plan.