Authorities of the Navi Mumbai International Airport Pvt Limited (NMIAL) recently issued notices to housing societies near the airport site. The company requested details about the heights of already constructed buildings, triggering concern among residents and activists. Some fear that this may lead to partial demolition of their buildings, while others argue that their structures were built years ago with proper permissions from Navi Mumbai’s civic body.
Aviation Safety and Restrictions
The request from NMIAL aligns with a Ministry of Civil Aviation directive that imposes height restrictions within a 20 km radius of any airport to ensure aviation safety. In 2023, NMIAL conducted an aeronautical survey that found several buildings in violation of these restrictions. Consequently, notices were sent to societies in areas such as Ulwe, Kharghar, and Seawoods in Nerul. The violations involve structures like hoardings, water tanks, antennas, and parapets that could interfere with safe aircraft operations.
Community Opposition
The societies have been asked to provide details within 15 days, including the top height of their buildings, construction timelines, sanctioned building plans, occupation certificates, and height clearance certificates from the Airports Authority of India. This action has met with strong opposition from local leaders. Former corporator Netra Shirke raised objections, questioning NMIAL’s authority to request this information directly from residents, especially when the buildings were constructed with all necessary approvals from the local authorities. Shirke argued that the essential features being flagged, such as water tanks and sheds, should not be considered violations. She also pointed out that the relocation of the Airport Surveillance Radar from Nerul to Dhakale Island in Belapur should make the previous 55-meter height restriction irrelevant.
Civic Body Clarifies NMIAL's Role
Municipal Commissioner Kailas Shinde clarified that NMIAL's actions are part of a routine process required by law before the airport can begin operations. He added that while NMIAL is a private entity, it has been entrusted by the government to develop the airport and enforce regulations, including height restrictions. NMIAL officials have reassured residents that the notices are part of a standard compliance process necessary to obtain an aerodrome license and only apply to superstructures violating height limits, not entire buildings.
Meanwhile, Former MLA and BJP city chief Sandeep Naik expressed similar concerns, assuring residents that his father, MLA Ganesh Naik, would escalate the issue with the aviation ministry. He emphasized that those with valid occupation certificates had nothing to worry about.
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