MUMBAI: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has initiated the land acquisition process for the proposed ‘Third Mumbai’—the Karnala-Sai-Chirner (KSC) New Town—along the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu corridor. Landowners in 124 villages of Raigad are invited to submit their online consent starting April 27.
The MMRDA, recognized as the New Town Development Authority (NTDA), has outlined a 323.44 sq km area that encompasses Uran, Panvel, and Pen talukas. This notice follows a state government resolution from March 16, 2026, establishing the framework for land acquisition, compensation, and allocation.
Landowners can choose various compensation methods under the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act, 1966, including mutual agreements for monetary compensation or compensation through floor space index (FSI) and transferable development rights (TDR). A land pooling model is also proposed, whereby 22.5% of developed land will be returned to the original landowners, similar to the framework applied in Navi Mumbai by the City and Industrial Development Corporation.
According to the plan, landowners in Uran and Panvel will receive developed plots within Uran, whereas those in Pen will be allocated plots in Pen taluka. This strategy aims to ensure localized rehabilitation and retain economic value for the original landholders.
MMRDA has requested landowners to complete and submit their consent forms online through the official website, along with necessary documents such as Aadhaar card, 7/12 extract, and 8A extract. Officials believe that digitizing this process will expedite acquisitions and minimize disputes.
On October 15, 2025, the Maharashtra government designated MMRDA as the NTDA for the project, stating that this new township aims to enhance connectivity and reduce travel time between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, thus facilitating regional economic growth.
The KSC New Town is strategically positioned to contribute to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s economic target of reaching $300 billion within the next five years, aligned with NITI Aayog’s transformation roadmap. In September, MMRDA signed a memorandum of understanding with the World Economic Forum to foster economic development in the region.
Officials envision the ‘Third Mumbai’ project as a significant technology and infrastructure hub, focusing on data centers, logistics, and high-value industries. Its prime attraction for investors lies in its strategic location, bolstered by multimodal connectivity—including ports, airports, Metro rail, dedicated freight corridors, and expressways—alongside an integrated road and Metro network planned for this new town.
