Mumbai/Navi Mumbai:
In response to rising public concerns, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the Urban Development Department (UDD) to examine complaints regarding the installation of mobile towers on road medians in Navi Mumbai.
The directive comes amid growing opposition from residents and citizen groups, particularly in the Ulwe area, where ongoing work related to telecom infrastructure has triggered safety and transparency concerns.
Key Highlights of the Issue
- The Chief Minister has ordered a formal scrutiny of complaints related to mobile towers being installed on road dividers.
- The matter has been forwarded to senior officials in the Urban Development Department for detailed review.
- The installations are part of a project being implemented by CIDCO in Navi Mumbai.
- Residents have raised concerns over traffic safety, obstruction, and lack of proper planning and approvals.
- Citizen groups have also questioned the transparency of the project and clearance processes.
Residents Raise Safety and Transparency Concerns
Local residents and activists have strongly objected to the installation of towers on central road medians, arguing that such structures could pose risks to traffic movement and public safety.
They have also expressed concerns over lack of clarity on permissions, safety clearances, and structural approvals, demanding greater transparency from authorities.
Citizen groups have emphasized that while they are not opposed to improved telecom services, they are worried about the manner in which the installations are being carried out without visible safeguards.
Activism and Possible Further Action
The issue was brought to the government’s attention by activists, prompting swift intervention from the Chief Minister. Residents have indicated that they will continue to pursue the matter through Right to Information (RTI) applications to access detailed project documentation.
Local protest groups have also warned of intensifying their agitation if authorities fail to ensure transparency and safety compliance in the ongoing work.
Background
The controversy follows recent protests in Navi Mumbai, where residents have flagged potential traffic disruption and safety risks linked to mobile tower installations on road medians.
The Chief Minister’s directive is expected to trigger a comprehensive administrative review of the project, including approvals and execution processes.
