Navi Mumbai News: CIDCO Denies Misuse Of Funds Over Belapur Parking Space Allegations

The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) has firmly denied allegations of misusing public funds for developing infrastructure on non-owned land near its headquarters in CBD Belapur. In a detailed response to a legal notice issued by Sajag Nagarik Manch, CIDCO has stated that the actions taken at the site were precautionary and fall within its administrative mandate.

The dispute pertains to a stretch of vacant land located beneath a high-tension line in front of CIDCO Bhavan. The complainant had accused the agency of spending public funds on unauthorized parking arrangements, including installation of CCTV cameras, lighting, and deployment of security personnel.

In its official reply dated July 24, CIDCO clarified that although it does not claim ownership of the land under the high-tension lines, the land falls within the area notified by the Maharashtra government in 1970 for the planned development of Navi Mumbai. CIDCO, as the New Town Development Authority (NTDA), holds administrative control over such spaces for planning and maintenance purposes.

CIDCO emphasized that the work carried out such as installation of lighting, CCTV, and periodic cleaning was necessary for maintaining security and hygiene, particularly given the proximity of key government offices including the Reserve Bank of India. The area is not operated as a paid or commercial parking facility and remains open only during daytime hours, with entry gates locked at night to prevent misuse.

The agency stressed that no permanent structures have been erected under the power lines and that all measures are in line with safety regulations. It called the allegations of fund misuse “baseless and unsubstantiated,” and indicated readiness to take legal action if defamatory claims continue.

CIDCO stated that the expenses involved are part of routine administrative duties and are aimed at ensuring public safety. “We respect citizen vigilance, but the claims made are based on assumptions and incorrect interpretations,” the agency said in its statement.

The reply concludes by affirming CIDCO’s right to defend its actions and reputation through appropriate legal means if necessary.

The Manch has said of studying the response and taking appropriate action.