Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Aug 5: The Maharashtra Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has approved a new policy for the allotment of small, unusable, or landlocked government and Nazul lands to adjacent property holders.

The move is aimed at resolving long-standing issues related to neglected plots, conservancy lanes, and narrow land strips behind homes, which are typically unsuitable for independent construction.

As per the policy, framed under Rule 37A of the Maharashtra Land Revenue (Disposal of Government Lands) Rules, 1971, these lands can now be officially allotted to neighbouring plot holders, depending on their current occupancy status:

• Leaseholders will receive the additional land on lease at the existing rate.
• Class-2 occupants (possession holders) must pay the full market price.
• Class-1 occupants (ownership rights) will need to pay 125% of the market rate (full price plus a 25% premium).

If multiple neighbouring owners stake a claim, allotment will require mutual consent. In the absence of consensus, the land will be auctioned, with Class-1 occupants required to pay the higher amount between the auction price and 125% of the market value.

The policy applies only within Municipal Corporation and Municipal Council limits. In Mumbai, prior approval from the District Collector and the state government is mandatory.

Additional conditions include:

• The land area must not exceed 10% of the original plot.
• It must not be used to transfer Floor Space Index (FSI).
• Any existing utility infrastructure (e.g., cables, pipelines) must be properly accounted for.
• Development must align with local building regulations.

The government aims to legalise long-ignored land parcels, reduce encroachment and disputes, and ensure better urban planning and accountability in land use.