Mumbai, April 18: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has unveiled India’s first participatory land acquisition model for the Mumbai 3.0 project. This innovative approach aims to transform the traditional land acquisition process into a more transparent, consent-based system that encourages public participation. Under this model, landowners are not just compensated but are also engaged as active partners in the development process.
This initiative is part of the new urban development area being developed under the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri–Nhava Sheva Atal Setu project. It encompasses a total area of approximately 323.44 square kilometers across 124 villages in the Uran, Panvel, and Pen talukas of Raigad district. The responsibility for the development of this entire area has now been assigned to the MMRDA, which has been designated as the new urban development authority.
This move follows a government decision made on March 16, 2026, which outlined a new land acquisition and pooling policy. Through this policy, the government has adopted a model that offers landowners multiple options, moving away from the outdated acquisition process.
According to the new system, landowners can receive compensation based on mutual agreement, with the amount determined through negotiations. Additionally, they may also be compensated with development rights, including Floor Space Index (FSI) and Transfer of Development Rights (TDR). Where applicable, extra incentives will also be provided.
The model includes a land pooling option, allowing landowners to receive a portion of developed land in exchange for their property. Under this plan, landowners in the Uran and Panvel talukas will receive approximately 22.5% of developed land in their areas, while landowners in the Pen taluka will similarly receive a share of developed land. This ensures that landowners are not merely recipients of compensation but become stakeholders in the urban development process.
Sanjay Mukherjee, the Metropolitan Commissioner of MMRDA, stated that the development of Mumbai 3.0 is entirely based on a citizen-centric approach. He emphasized that the successful construction of the city and nation hinges on the active participation of its citizens. He noted that the model aims to provide landowners with options that allow them to make decisions based on their needs and interests.
An online consent process will also be initiated under this project, starting April 27, 2026. Landowners will need to submit their Aadhaar card and relevant land documents for this process.
The goal of this initiative is to promote planned and balanced urban development in the Mumbai metropolitan region. It is expected to accelerate infrastructure development and aid in the growth of new cities. This model is seen as a significant shift in urban development in India, where landowners will become direct partners in development and benefit from the overall growth of the region.
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