A fire broke out in the parking lot operated by CIDCO headquarters under the high-tension line plot in Belapur on March 7, causing significant damage, including the destruction of two Innova cars. The incident has reignited allegations that CIDCO has no legal authority to operate a parking facility on the plot.
While a major explosion was narrowly avoided, the incident has raised serious safety concerns regarding the vehicles parked in the area and the potential risks posed to the high-voltage power lines.
"Even though the plot doesn't belong to CIDCO, the organization has restricting access by locking the gates on weekends and after office hours. CIDCO should be held accountable for the fire incident and any future mishaps that may result in financial or human casualties," said activist and founder of Sajag Nagrik Manch Sudhir Dani.
Activists have earlier pointed out about the expenses incurred by CIDCO for undertaking several developments in the parking area, such as installing paver blocks, CCTV cameras, security gates, and deploying guards. "There are RTIs that clearly state CIDCO is not authorized to carry out any activity on this plot. However, given the substantial amount spent on its maintenance and upkeep, CIDCO appears to have assumed ownership. As a result, it holds legal and administrative responsibility for incidents occurring within the premises," added Dani.
A key question being raised is whether CIDCO will acknowledge its accountability for the fire. "If CIDCO denies responsibility for the damages incurred, it raises a fundamental question—does the agency forfeit its claim of ownership over the parking lot altogether?" questioned Dani.
The fire incident has sparked widespread public concern. Given the growing demand for transparency, citizens and organizations, including Sajag Nagarik Manch, Navi Mumbai, expect CIDCO to issue an official statement addressing these concerns and clarifying its position.
When contacted, the Public Relations Office of CIDCO refrained from commenting on the matter.
