Navi Mumbai: The MMRDA Karnala Sai Chirner (KSC) Navnagar Virodhi Samiti has issued a passionate appeal to villagers whose homes and farmlands fall under the proposed Third Mumbai development project, urging them to resist selling their ancestral land at undervalued rates. The group warns against falling prey to brokers and real estate speculators, emphasizing the long-term value of their land.
A Call to Resist Exploitation
In an open letter addressed to “farmer brothers,” the Samiti recounted past battles against land acquisition attempts, reminding villagers of their hard-fought victories.
“Since 2003, the government has made five attempts to acquire our land for various projects,” the letter states. “In 2006, there was an effort to take over our land under the guise of Reliance’s Maha-Mumbai SEZ. We fought back legally and on the streets for five years—and we won.”
The Samiti alleges that history is repeating itself under the Third Mumbai project, with brokers pressuring farmers to sell at meager prices while misleading the youth with false promises. “Do not fall into this trap,” the letter warns.
Land Value Skyrocketing, Yet Farmers Offered Peanuts
The letter highlights how infrastructure projects like the Atal Setu and rapid urbanization have sent land prices soaring in the region.
“Land near JNPT and Navi Mumbai is valued at over Rs 1 crore per guntha,” the Samiti stated. “In fact, in a 2017 order, the Raigad Collector set compensation for NHIA-affected farmers at Rs 58.80 lakh per guntha.”
Despite this, the group claims that brokers are offering as little as Rs 2–4 lakh per guntha, exploiting villagers’ lack of awareness. “They are not fools. They know how valuable this land will be. Don’t let them snatch your motherland for a pittance,” the letter asserts.
Appeal to the Youth: Protect Your Heritage
The Samiti made a special appeal to the younger generation, urging them not to trade their family’s legacy for short-term gains.
“This land has been nurtured by generations before you. Selling it for momentary profit will leave future generations with nothing,” the letter reads. “Be patient. Join the struggle against MMRDA. Through unity, we can win justice.”
Grassroots Mobilization Underway
To spread their message, the Samiti has printed 5,000 copies of the letter for distribution in Karnala, Sai, and Chirner villages. Additionally, the appeal is being circulated widely through WhatsApp groups and social media.
Sudhakar Patil, ex-IRS officer and President of the Samiti, said, “We want every villager to understand their rights and the true value of their land. This is not just about money—it’s about protecting our identity and future.”
Third Mumbai Project: Boon or Bane?
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has proposed Third Mumbai as a solution to the city’s congestion, envisioning a new urban hub spanning 320 sq km across Khalapur, Pen, Panvel, Uran, and Karjat. However, farmers and activists argue that the project will displace thousands of families while benefiting only a handful of developers.
Villagers remain divided—some see it as an opportunity for economic growth, while others fear losing their livelihoods. The KSC Navnagar Virodhi Samiti hopes their campaign will unite the community in demanding fair compensation and transparency from authorities.
What’s Next?
With land acquisition notices expected soon, the Samiti plans to organize protests, legal challenges, and public awareness campaigns. “We defeated SEZ in the past, and we will fight this too,” Patil declared.
As the battle over Third Mumbai heats up, the question remains: Will the government address farmers’ concerns, or will another prolonged struggle unfold?
For now, the villagers of Raigad are being told: “Hold on to your land—your future depends on it.”\
KSC New Town, KSC Third Mumbai, KSC, KSC Town, KSC Tisari Mumbai
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