Four high-value land parcels belonging to the Maharashtra State Transport Department in Mumbai have been illegally encroached upon, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik revealed following a review meeting held at the Transport Commissioner’s office on Thursday.
Among the encroached plots is a significant 7-acre site in Ramabai Nagar, Ghatkopar, along with other key locations in Wadala, Juhu, and Andheri. These lands have been gradually occupied by slum dwellers over several years, with little departmental intervention. Calling the inaction “unfortunate,” Sarnaik has directed officials to erect fences around all department-owned lands and urgently prepare a comprehensive development blueprint.
Currently, 15 regional transport offices continue to operate from rented premises due to the underutilization of departmental land assets. In light of these issues, Sarnaik emphasized the need to secure remaining properties and prevent further encroachments.
At the meeting, Sarnaik instructed officials to update records for all 43 land parcels under the department’s jurisdiction across the state. He specifically directed the preparation of legal documents such as 7/12 extracts and 8-A forms, and the submission of this data to the Transport Commissioner’s office. Where necessary, legal action will be initiated to remove encroachments.
The Minister also announced plans to develop department land under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with a long-term vision of 50 years. Proposed developments include office complexes, vehicle testing tracks, and other essential infrastructure to modernize the Transport Department and boost revenue.
Sarnaik also instructed the concerned official to form a special committee to inspect each plot, collect details, and prepare official records. He further directed the appointment of an Estate Officer and a Legal Advisor within 15 days to handle documentation and legal verification. "All land-related paperwork is to be authenticated by June 20, after which a final decision on development plans will be taken," Sarnaik instructed the official.
