Uttar Bhartiya Samaj Felicitates The Naiks For Winning Elections

The Navi Mumbai Uttar Bhartiya Samaj organized a felicitation program for NCP’s victory in the parliamentary and state assembly elections.

In May this year, NCP’s Dr Sanjeev Naik created history by winning the Lok Sabha elections from Thane constituency and was elected Member of Parliament. On the other hand in the October assembly polls, the winning streak of NCP in Navi Mumbai continued as Ganesh Naik and Sandeep Naik emerged victorious from Belapur and Airoli constituencies. With the father and sons scaling such success, many communities in Navi Mumbai have been organizing felicitation ceremonies for them. So did the Uttar Bhartiya Samaj that has always stood with the leadership of Ganesh Naik. The Samaj organized a felicitation ceremony to felicitate Ganesh Naik and Sanjeev Naik for the public work that they have been doing

Maharashtra Malayalee Christian Association Celebrate Annual Day At Vashi

The Maharashtra Malayalee Christian Association comprising nearly six Keralite Christian sects conducted its third annual day programme at St. Marys Ground at Vashi.

The three day annual program of the Maharashtra Malayalee Christian Association comprising nearly six Keralite Christian sects comprised of spiritually uplifting programs that precedes the celebration of Christmas culminated with an annual day celebration. Hymes were sung to praise the Lord by a group of singers on the St Marys School Ground where thousands of people had gathered. State Excise and Non-Conventional Energy Minister Ganesh Naik and Supreme Curt Judge Cyriac Joseph joined the celebrations. Speaking to the media Bishop Mar Thomas Elavanal – the President of the Maharashtra Malayalee Christian Association and Bishop of Kalyan Diocese said that the gathering of the people signifies unity and success of formulating MMCA as a means to bring Christians of Diverse sects together.

Speaking to the media State Minister Ganesh Naik said that the MMCA was formed with good views of bringing different sections of the society together.

After Bandra, Now Nmmt Begins New Service To Dindoshi In Mumbai

There more good news for bus commuters. NMMT has introduced bus number 123 for its new service route from CBD to Dindoshi. The new bus service was officially commenced at the hands of State Excise and Non-Conventional Resources Minister Ganesh Naik at CBD Bus Depot.

NMMT introduced its first bus service to Mumbai city by plying buses from CBD to Bandra. After receiving a good response from the commuters, it has decided to start service to another route – this time from CBD to Dindoshi. Bus number 123 of NMMT will be plying on this route. These buses, which have been acquired under the JNNURM Scheme will be plying on various routes in Mumbai. The bus service from CBD to Dindoshi was officially inaugurated at CBD Belapur Bus Depot at the hands of State Excise and Non-Conventional Resources Minister Ganesh Naik. Navi Mumbai Mayor Anjani Bhoir was also present during the ceremony. Ganesh Naik, along with other members enquired about the routes the buses will be plying to. While speaking to the media, Ganesh Naik stated that this service would not be profitable to the transport body but will be beneficial for the commuters as well.

When questioned on how BEST makes creates hassles for NMMT in Mumbai, the Minister stated that instead of competing, BEST should focus on improving its service. He also opined that in order to tackle the tussle between BEST and NMMT, Transport Secretary and Transport Commissioner should have a talk with the respective officials and take a decision after listening to both the parties.

NMMT Manager Jitendra Papalkar gave an insight about the routes of the new bus service. Further speaking about the new routes he stated that the transport body is thinking of plying some buses out of the 10 buses on Dadar route. He was positive that like the bus services to Bandra, if this one would receive a good response.

When asked about the cold war between BEST and NMMT, he stated that they believe in healthy competition but their vision is to provide good and efficient service. As far as ticket fares are concerned, he indicated that they might consider increasing them.

Soon after NMMT launched its AC Volvo bus services from CBD Belapur to Bandra, BEST too began AC bus service. Now that NMMT has planned to go to Dindoshi, there are chances that the competition between NMMT and BEST will continue.

MLA Sandeep Naik

MlL Sandeep Naik (born August 4, 1978), Sandeep Naik son of Nationalist Congress party heavy weight & State Excise Minister Non Conventional Energy Minister Shri Ganesh Naik and Younger Brother of Thane NCP & NCP Chief whip MP Sanjeev Naik.

Vidhan Bhavan Workshop Gives A General Knowledge Training To Newly Elected Mlas

Make an effort to be present in the Assembly. This was the simple message conveyed to the new legislators at a two-day workshop held at the Vidhan Bhavan to introduce first-time MLAs to the working of the state legislature.

Present during the workshop at the Vidhan Bhavan was Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, Speaker Dilip Walse Patil, Deputy Chief Minister Chaggan Bhujbal, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Harshvardhan Patil, Shivaji Rao Deshmukh, Opposition Leader Eknath Khade, Sena legislator Subhash Desai amongst other senior MLAs. More than 100 MLAs were present for this training workshop. Addressing the your MLAs, Chief Minister Ashok Chavan urged them to stand upto the expectations of the voters. The young MLAS were also addressed by Deputy Chief Minister Ashok Chavan. Parliamentary Minister Harshwardhan Patil informed that the state had approved 5 crores for training purposes in the state. BJP Leader Eknath Khadse called the right of MLAs as a big weapon for them with which they could reorm the lives of many.

In Our Series “your Ward ! Your Corporator’s Performance !” We Have “even After Five Years, The Youth Of Ward No.52 In Vashi Await Libarary And Gymnas

“Your ward ! Your Corporator’s performance !” is a Good Governance Initiative of your channel to bring to you every authentic information that will make you an enlightened voter ahead of Navi Mumbai Municipal Elections 2010. Today in this series we bring to you a report from sector 16 of Vashi where controversy plagues the multipurpose building in this node which was supposed to house a library and gymnasium but today is being allegedly misused.

The sectors 15 and 16 of Vashi majorly comprises of residents from the Middle Income group. For these residents, a multipurpose building named late Vimal Dhanaji Shinde was constructed in sector 16 of Vashi by NMMC to provide the facilities of a library and gymnasium at nominal rates. However, today this multipurpose building is marred with controversy as the locals of the area have alleged that the building is being misused. The fate of the building was no different since the time of its inception. It was on January 15th 2003 that the proposal for the construction of this multipurpose building was passed by the NMMC General Body Meet. The contract of the multipurpose building was awarded to City Builders. However, it was not until February 16 2004, an year later, that the building saw the first lights of foundation. The construction work was to be completed within an year’s time. The construction work began on a snail’s pace and finally was completed on 15th March 2009, that is five years later, at a cost of Rs 41, 36, 994. The builder is said to have cited the reason of change in the RCC design for the delay in work. Although delayed, the multipurpose building was finally
inaugurated at the hands of Thane Guardian Minister Ganesh Naik. Unfortunately, even after five years, the building does not seem tobe serving its purpose. When our team took a tour of the building, they found broken cable wires and discarded packets of gutkas. Even the locals alleged that the building was being misused. He further voiced the amount of time taken for constructing this multipurpose building. The youngsters of the area also voiced the need of a library and gymnasium in the sector soon.
The multipurpose building was constructed with the efforts of local corporator Madhvi Shinde but today she failed miserably to get the library and gymnasium functioning on time. The issue was also taken up by Vijay Walunj to the corporation by way of a letter but he has not received any positive reply. Hence, he along with the local residents have now submitted a letter to the Vashi ward office to immediately start the multipurpose building. The big question that the residents are asking is first the long delay in the construction of the building and then the delay in commencing the main purpose of the building. All said and done, even after five years, the main purpose of the multipurpose building in sector 16 of Vashi seems to have gone unfulfilled which is being seen as deceiving by the youth and residents of sector 16 Vashi. If the corporator of your ward has failed to fulfill his promises, then call us on 9223339191, 27899191 or 27659191. Your support and your awareness will make our corporators responsible and accountable. If you are satisfied with your corporator. Elect him again or replace him in the upcoming Navi Mumbai Municipal Elections 2010.

CIDCO is yet to appoint a dedicated official for the ambitious project in CBD

The Urban Haat, inaugurated amidst much fanfare by Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, Former environment minister Ganesh Naik and his deputy Chhagan Bhujbal few months back, remains closed for public. No exhibitions or events have been held here since then for City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) is yet to appoint a manager to handle the maintenance and overlook events at the prestigious location.
The code of conduct implemented for the state elections further delayed the appointment process. Meanwhile, the condition at Urban Haat has worsened due to slack in security and maintenance.
A CIDCO official on condition of anonymity said, "The engineers, planners and designers have contributed a lot to the project and it is indeed a landmark for the city, but we realised that we need one person totally dedicated to overlook the affairs of the Haat. We are not equipped for it and have no experience in organising such events. Right from inviting the artists from across the state to making the facilities available for them and creating the right buzz in the market by attracting people to the venue, a lot of time and energy will go in to it."
Also, the officer pointed out that the manager who will be appointed for the ambitious Urban Haat needs to have sufficient contacts and experience in the tourism industry.
"Now that the code of conduct has been lifted and staff is resuming normal duty, we will be able to appoint some officer very soon. The Managing Director himself is overlooking the appointment procedure," he indicated.

'NMMT will be the best transport body by Dec'

If Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) authorities are to be believed, by December this year, the civic transport system will be one among the best. NMMT plans to revamp its services by adding 450 new buses and 67 routes in city. The new services include places from Mumbai, Thane, Uran, Kalyan and Dombivili. Apart from these, NMMT also plans to increase the present frequency by plying a bus in every 15 minutes on all the routes in and out of the city.
"Under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), we will get 150 new buses, and another 300 buses will hit the road under Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis. Most of the new buses will be introduced on new routes. Our aim is to provide a bus in every 15 minutes on all routes," Sasi Damodaran, one of the members of transport committee, said.
Damodaran said that NMMT has also decided to provide its services to at least three lakh more commuters. "Navi Mumbai has a population of 21 lakh people. As of now, we provide services to only 2.5 lakh people daily. By January 2010, we plan to provide services to at least five lakh people," added Damodaran. At present there are 269 fleets operational on 39 routes.
NMMT also plans to add more buses to its AC service by introducing 20 Volvo and 10 Ashok Leyland buses. These buses will have Global Positioning System (GPS), Public Information System (PIS) and LED system.
Meanwhile, commuters are happy that finally NMMT is making a complete revamp in the services and say that it will help the NMMT to serve better.

4 years old Ananya all set to enter the Guinness book of world record

Today, we introduce you to a classical dancer Ananya Kurup who is all set to get her name entered in the Guinness Book of World Record. But what is so different about this classical dancer from others. Ananya Kurup is just a four year old girl who is being termed as the youngest classical dancer. We bring you few glimpses of her performance.

Gracious, elegant and swift dance movements. Ananya Kurup is a cute little four year old but what she possess is a talent to dance. A Junior KG student of Presentation Convent School, Nerul, Ananya started dancing when she was just a baby and literally one year old. Her first performance was at the Ayyappa Temple in CBD. We met her in one of her recent performances where an excited Ananya danced away to glory in a jam packed auditorium.

To get a glimpse of this little wonder, Thane Guardian Minister Ganesh Naik and well known actor R. Chandran along with her well wishers were present. She was dancing on the beat and rhythm of her Guru Sushma Gopinath and team. Speaking about Ananya, her dance teacher Sushma Gopinath said that while students learn at the age of 5 and get ready for arangetrum at 10 Annanya completed all these stages before hitting the stage.

Talent runs in the family as Annanya's mother, Pravitha is also a dancer by profession. Identifying her daughter’s talent, she took her along while teaching dance to her students. Ananya soon caught up. Ananya’s mother today is definitely a proud one today. An impressed Thane Guardian Minister Ganesh Naik said that for Bharatnatyam one needs high degree of integrity and confidence, which this girl possesses. He further spoke on the other achievers who have added glory to the city.

Film actor R. Chandran even stated that Ananya could become the cultural ambassador of the country. Possessing an innate talent, for Ananya sky is the limit!!

NMMC floats tender for skywalk in Airoli

The much awaited skywalk at Airoli, the first of its kind in the twin city, would be coming up in the next 15 months, according to NMMC sources. The civic body administration has floated a tender to the tune of Rs 2.8 crore for the project which is likely to be commenced after the state election.
The circle is a connecting point of sectors 5, 14, 15, 8, 9 and 10 of Airoli and Diwa village, and the construction of a skywalk at this spot will provide the pedestrians an easy and comfortable walk to the bus stops and back to their home" he revealed
Residents were demanding a Foot-over Bridge (FOB) across the Aioli-Mulund highway near Garam Masala Hotel at sector-10 in order to avert the risk of crossing the crowded highway. Said former municipal corporator Rohini Ghadge, "During my stint as the corporator, I had asked NMMC to construct a FOB at sector-10 to prevent the road accidents due to the negligent road crossing.
In the absence of a foot over bridge the school children are directly crossing the road. A formal request was also made to the traffic police to prevent the road crossing, but no action has been taken in the five years," she complained.
Traffic cops had suggested a subway at sector-10 to ease the problems of road crossing.
A foot over bridge at sector 10 will serve only a limited segment of people while a skywalk may be beneficial to a large section of people staying at Diwa-Koliwada, sectors 8, 9, 10, 14 and 15 of Airoli.
The skywalk is planned in such a way that it will be accessible to all pedestrians coming from the different directions, "Traffic police had suggested us to take feasible measures to streamline pedestrian movements on the highway to avert all road mishaps as a result of the road crossing.
We have considered many options including the construction of FOB, flyovers and subways as suggested by the locals and traffic cops. Subways are costly and time consuming whereas the skywalk is economically feasible and could be completed in a reasonable time. Hence a skywalk has been decided at Diwa-Koliwada circle to ease the problems of road crossing," informed the official

NMMT to double Volvos on Mumbai-bound routes

Considering the inconveniencies faced by commuters heading from the satellite city to Mumbai, Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) is pressing into services six more buses on the busy route soon.
"NMMT had planned for pressing into service 30 buses on Navi Mumbai-Mumbai route. Five Volvo buses of the fleet were rolled down to Bandra in July while six more Volvos will soon hit the roads,"
"The remaining buses will make it to the roads step by step till the end of the year or next year. Ten buses will run on the CBD-Belapur route, while NMMT will have as many buses heading to Mumbai airport and the rest of the lot will travel between Navi Mumbai and Dadar in the next few days," he said.
Papalkar added, "Twenty of the 30 buses which NMMT will receive are Volvo buses, while the remaining are AC buses from Ashok Leyland. The buses will have Global Positioning System (GPS), Public Information System (PIS) and LED system for better services to the people. Of which, LED system will be soon installed in the buses, while GPS and PIS systems can wait till December or January since the installation of the two technologies involve satellite-related issues."
"Besides, the more number of vehicles added to the services will also reduce the time gap between two buses to Mumbai and the commuters need not wait for 40-45 minutes like earlier," he added.
Talking about the bus service between Kalamboli and Bandra instead of Belapur and Bandra, the official said, "As of now the buses will run between Belapur and Bandra. After surveying the situation and response, we will take decision on initiating such facility from Kalamboli instead of Belapur."
NMMT has been contemplating on running 10 buses from Kalamboli bus stop near Mahatma Gandhi Mission's (MGM) Hospital to Bandra to provide its services to as many city commuters as possible without much hike in the ticket prices. NMMT has been sanctioned 150 new buses by Central government under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).

Civic body's artificial ponds proved useful

NMMC's initiative to encourage immersion of Ganesh idols in the three artificial ponds erected this year at Kopri, Vashi and Shiravane is a welcome move. The efforts taken by the civic officials for the environmental-friendly initiative need to be appreciated. The encouraging response is very evident from figures released by the NMMC of immersion in these artificial ponds. In order to encourage such switch over, NMMC has rightly located the artificial ponds close to the existing traditional immersion ponds.
It was in last year that the civic body made a small beginning on a trial basis in this environmental-friendly direction by erecting a sole artificial pond at Kopri. The basic idea behind the initiative is to preserve natural lakes and ponds and prevent environmental degradation. NMMC should also appeal to the public through media to patronise the artificial ponds in large numbers to make the initiative a bigger success.
Tradition-bound villagers and even city folk may not switch over to the new set-up immediately. But, the progressive and educated people concerned about the environment have welcomed the option and preferred the same. The encouraging response has shown that the trend is catching up. It is worthy to note that the political class has supported the cause.
NMMC should be congratulated to encourage and facilitate smooth immersion at the civic artificial ponds. It has put lifeguards on duty. We understand that after the immersions are over, civic body has to collect the idols and transport the same to immerse them deep in the creek waters. But, they should take utmost care to observe religious sentiment and sanctity, while doing so.
Traditional ponds are at the heart of village community life. So being the main stakeholders, they will be at the receiving end of the mercy of the environmental degradation of these water bodies.
Year-after-year, NMMC entails heavy expenditure to clean the traditional village ponds, which get polluted as well as choked due to idol immersions. All such needless civic expenditure as well as environmental degradation is very much avertable, if people switch over to artificial ponds for idol immersion.
The announcement by civic engineer that NMMC will set up such artificial ponds in all nodes of Navi Mumbai next year should be welcomed whole-hearted and people should support the initiative taken by the NMMC with their cooperation in the larger interest of the environmental cause.

NMMC's eco-visarjan gets good response

With the increasing awareness about environment, more number of Navi Mumbaikars are now opting for eco-friendly ways of immersing Ganesh idols. On the last day of immersion, thousands of Ganpati idols will be immersed in the artificial ponds.
Sumati Shende, a resident of Sanpada, said, "It is a small contribution which we can make to save the environment. When the civic body has made the arrangement of artificial lake, we should make use of it."
At the same time, one of the city residents felt that the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) should have replicated the Thane Municipal Corporation's (TMC) counter system. "My sister resides in Thane city and TMC has opened a counter where city residents give away the idol for immersion at the counter. The new system has been well-received there.
Meanwhile, residents from many parts of the city have demanded more artificial lakes so that the natural lakes can be protected. Prasad Raut, resident of Vashi said, "With an artificial lake in place, we can save the natural lakes from the hazardous chemicals and Plaster of Paris."
Considering the extent of environment pollution caused owing to the immersion of Ganesh idols made of PoP, NMMC had made provision of artificial ponds to be used by devotees. In addition to the artificial pond at Kopri, this year the Corporation has made similar provision at sector 6 Vashi and Chincholi pond at Shiravane.

CIDCO to lease nine plots for schools in city

Educational institutions will be allotted plots to set up composite schools
For those who think Navi Mumbai is only about state-of-the-art IT parks, malls, wide roads and flyovers, here is an eye-opener. City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), in its bid to turn Navi Mumbai in to an educational hub, will be leasing nine plots for schools in developing nodes of the satellite city.
The growing number of educational institutes offering a range of courses from engineering to pharmacy is indicative of the city's future. Of the nine plots reserved for composite schools, five plots will be leased in Kamothe.
"We are focusing on the upcoming nodes as a large number of people are moving to these areas. Nodes such as Kamothe and Airoli are witnessing widespread development and residents have expressed their need for good schools in the vicinity offering quality education for their children. This is the need of the hour and we are releasing land for schools as part of our social responsibility," a CIDCO official said on condition of anonymity.
The remaining four plots of land are situated in Airoli, CBD-Belapur, Kharghar and Nerul. Each plot has been allotted a Floor Space Index (FSI) of 1. The plot in Kharghar is reserved for a pre-primary, primary, secondary and higher secondary school in Urdu and English medium. The remaining eight plots are reserved for pre-primary, primary, secondary and higher secondary school in English and Marathi medium.
Navi Mumbai boasts of several educational institutes, which provide quality education, advanced infrastructure and a global environment conducive for study and overall development of students.
Apart from the regular courses in engineering, medicine, management, pharmacy and architecture, these institutes also offer newer subjects like fashion, bio-medical science, genetic engineering and social entrepreneurship. The growing number of students in the city is also contributing to the overall growth of the city.
Kharghar resident Mrinalini Sharma says, "Reputed institutes offering quality education has definitely added to the star quotient of the city. We chose to reside in Navi Mumbai keeping in mind the bright future of our children."

St Mary’s night school lights up minds of poor and underprivileged students

One could learn a lesson or two from St. Mary’s Multipurpose High School and Junior College at Vashi. The school for the last five years has made a social commitment of educating the underprivileged by running a night school in its school premises.

A building to match any corporate establishment with modern classrooms - this is an upscale city school which is giving its services to educate the underprivileged. St. Mary’s Multipurpose High School and Junior College at Vashi has been running a night school for the last five years for the underprivileged children of the city. Starting with just 60 students initially, the school now boasts of more than 200 enrolments. Not only are studies completely free, the students are also provided school uniforms, books and snacks.

St. Mary’s School work in association with an NGO called Aarambh headed by Shobha Murthy. The NGO identifies the students and sends the underprivileged children to the school. The school makes sure that the education provided to these night school students is at par with the day school classes. Running from first to 6th Std, the school is planning to increase its standards to Xth increasing the opportunities for the students.

10 year old Sampada Khandare and 15 year old Reena Yadhav both hailing from Turbhe love coming to school, to talk to their teachers and parents, to learn to love and care. The solution to the life that most under privileged children have is education in a loving environment that nurtures the growth of the children. These students are disciplined and hardworking, probably more than the regular students. One would agree to this once they meet 14-year-old Shekhar Manjulkar. Shekhar is visually impaired but this has not stopped him from finding his dream. Studying in sixth standard, Shekhar says that he never thought that he would ever go to a school but thanks to St. Mary’s, this dream had become a reality for him. Shekhar lives with his parents, a brother and sister at Turbhe. His favorite subject is social science, especially history as it tells him about the past. Shekhar wants to become a professor. Teachers at St. Mary’s say that it is a satisfaction to educate these students, as they are raw, waiting to be molded into good and responsible individuals of the society. Someone wise once said that “education is a producer of wealth, in a large sense, which leads to prosperity, which in turn leads to a high civilization.” At St. Mary’s Multipurpose School, this lesson is well learnt.

NMMT talks tough with defiant BEST

On being denied permission to park the newly-launched air-conditioned bus at the Bandra terminus by Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST), the Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) authorities have sent a strongly-worded letter to the BEST stating that the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) may be forced to take some stringent steps in this regard.Calling BEST their 'Big Brother', NMMT authorities are requesting BEST officials to consider the matter carefully or else be prepared to face the music.BEST had refused to allow NMMT bus number 105, an air-conditioned Volvo from entering the Bandra Terminus last week.Sasi Damodaran, a member of the transport body said, "We consider them our elder brother and hence don't want this issue to escalate. We have sent them a letter pointing that all these years, NMMC has paid for all the maintenance costs of the bus terminals in Navi Mumbai and never demanded any costs from BEST. Also, we did not demand any permission from BEST to ply their buses in the city. On the contrary, we have welcomed them. So why are they giving us such step-treatment?"He further said that NMMT is facing loss of revenue as the new buses are being denied permission in to the Bandra terminus and are being asked to park at a corner. "We were expecting huge revenue from these new buses, but passengers will never come to know of this new service if the buses are parked in some corner. We are giving them sufficient time to contemplate on the matter, but if they do not reconsider, we too will be forced to take some extreme step and ask BEST to seek our permission to enter Navi Mumbai. We don't want passengers to suffer in this conflict," he pointed out.NMMT procured these five new Volvo buses under Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and launched them on the Belapur-Bandra route after a grand inauguration ceremony held last week.In the past too, BEST had opposed NMMT's plans to launch bus service to the island city.When contacted, General Manager of BEST Uttam Khobragade said he couldn't speak as he was out of country. BEST has been accused of unfair play by its counterparts outside Mumbai in the past as well. A BEST official replied that BEST was operating buses as a favour to the satellite city whereas Navi Mumbai buses have no business entering Mumbai.Meanwhile, commuters opined that the travelling facility should not be affected by this 'stupid' fight between transport bodies.NMMT's AC bus service to Mumbai has straightaway run into rough weather, thanks to BEST.

Rs52cr children's park for Nerul

Jogging track, playing area, science centre, swimming pool, mini train, the park will have it all

If everything goes according to Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation's (NMMC) plans, Nerul will get its own children's park spread across 10.45 hectors (1,04,500 sqm) within a couple of years at sector 19A. NMMC has passed a proposal of construction of this park in the General Body meeting held on Monday at NMMC headquarters, Belapur. The project is estimated to cost over Rs 52.06 crore."This project will be a landmark of the city. This park will comprise all the facilities which the residents of the node have been awaiting for," stated corporator Rajendra Ithape, Nerul.The park will be constructed on the lines of Ratho Park of Amsterdam. "I have personally visited this park and wish to have such parks in our city, too," added Ithape. He also grieved about the city for not having a single recreational centre with international standard. "Navi Mumbai has many shopping malls, but these malls don't belong to the corporation. If we have very good recreational centres, people would definitely love to spend their good time there," opined Ithape.The park will have jogging track, yoga centre, picnic lawn, seating arrangements, garden furniture, play materials for children, skating track, swimming pool, tree house, mini toy train, rock climbing zone, Amphitheatre, party lawn, wedding lawn, statues, lotus bridge, fountains, river, bridges, 50m-tall stainless steal statue, car parking, sewage line, security home, food court, restaurants and Science centre. Of the above mentioned sum Rs 31 crore will be spent on Science centre, food court and restaurant, while the rest will be spent on other facilities."We are trying to include maximum recreational and sporting facilities under one roof through this park. This park will bring Nerul on international map. Navi Mumbai needs to have its uniqueness, and this is the beginning of it," Ithape concluded. Meanwhile, residents in the node are a happy lot, since their long-pending demand is seeing the lights, finally.

Expand the road from CBD-Vashi

Navi Mumbai is a heaven on earth. Broad roads, greenery all along the roads, neat and clean atmosphere and fresh air gives you pleasure of living in a happy way. But the condition of roads is bad with lot of potholes and needs repairs at the earliest. Perhaps, the flyover connecting Palm Beach Road can solve the problem partially. Both Dahi Handi and Ganpati festivals are celebrated in a grand way and occupy the roads. Better sense should prevail without blocking the roads. Again, the road after Konkan Bhavan in Belapur leading to Sion is very narrow and the traffic gets held up. After coming through the Expressway with a speed, you are compelled to go snail's pace once you cross Belapur towards Vashi. The bottleneck is to be cleared by widening the road to the maximum and the curve should be straightened as far possible by drilling the mountains. It is high time traffic should move smooth.

NMMT starts AC buses to Bandra

Although rains played a spoilsport, the inauguration ceremony of the first batch of five Volvo buses at Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport's (NMMT) Turbhe depot on Tuesday proved to be a hit. The ceremony was not only attended by State Excise and Environment Minister Ganesh Naik but even MLC Manda Mhatre braved the rains and potholed roads to attend the function along with State Transport Commissioner Deepak Kapoor and many other dignitaries.
NMMT's foray into Mumbai marks a new chapter in the history of the Corporation, said Naik while appreciating the efforts of all the officials who made this happen in spite of stiff opposition from certain sectors. Like AC buses, Naik urged officials from Volvo to supply non-AC buses too to cater to the poor.
The newly-inaugurated air-conditioned buses will operate between CBD-Belapur and Bandra covering a total distance of 33.5 kms within 85-90 minutes. The frequency of the buses will be 18 minutes and the fare is Rs 45.
Stressing on the need to maintain strict safety and cleanliness levels for these buses, Kapoor requested NMMT officials to form a separate cell to look after the maintenance and safety of Volvo buses in order to cater to the extremely sophisticated market in Mumbai. "Keeping the future growth of Navi Mumbai, the proposed airport and other projects in mind, NMMT must start operating these buses from Navi Mumbai to Santacruz to connect the two airports and tap this profitable market before others do. Such a service will also help boost weekend tourism in the city," he said.
Kapoor also urged officials to reduce 'turn around time' for better efficiency and reliability. "Passengers will suffer in case of monopoly. Do not give your competitors such a chance and offer best service," he added.
Akash Passey, MD of Volvo Buses India Pvt Ltd said, "The fare is only 25 to 30 per cent higher than ordinary buses. The emissions are much lower. Taking all the advantages in to consideration, I will say the buses are apt for travel within city and will help bring down congestion as commuters will not mind leaving their cars and bikes behind to travel by this bus." He added, "Earlier, the focus was only on Metro Rail but the authorities now realise that such comfortable, efficient transport system which can run parallel to rail and Metro will help bring down congestion in city." NMMT's Transport Manager Jitendra Papalkar said the NMMT has received the permission to operate another 300 buses on Build Own Operate (BOO) basis.
Passey assured that the remaining 15 Volvo buses too will be delivered by end of July. Formed in 1996, NMMT presently boasts of a fleet of 269 buses and has two depots in Turbhe and Asudgaon. NMMT operates these buses on 39 routes within the city. Work on setting up a CNG pump is presently on at the depot and NMMT hopes to convert all its buses into CNG soon. Later, Naik along with other corporators and staff inaugurated the buses and went on a ride from the depot to NMSA in Vashi.

City duo undertake community greening task- a weekend feature

At a time when the threat of global warming looms heavily over the city, there are a few residents who have done their bit to conserve nature and maintain the green zone in the city. Meet Maruti Nana Kadam and Sripad Ganpatrao Patki, two residents of Sanpada who have with their will and determination made their vicinity a clean and green zone.

Four years ago when Maruti Naya Kadam planted a few saplings outside his home in Sanpada, his neighbours were skeptical about his intention. Water was in short supply during those days and he used to fill bottles of water to ensure that the plants were well fed. Now, four years later Kadam and the organisation he founded Hariyali Lok Kalyan Seva Samiti have transformed the 50 ft wide and one-and-a-half kilometer long stretch of barren land outside their housing society into the greenest patch not just in Sanpada but in Navi Mumbai with over 6,000 trees. While the tall trees give the area a nice green cover, below their cool shade, you would find patches of medicinal plants. To the visitor, they look like any other foliage, but Kadam will tell you the numerous benefits they have and how people have battled ailments using the right plant. These plants are given free of charge to patients provided the cause is genuine and they know how to use it. And yes, if you want a sapling for your home, Kadam will only be too happy to provide you with one.

Kadam along with his friends stated that everyone should make their surroundings clean and green. Shripad Ganpatrao Patki, an ardent nature lover is not only inspiration for people of his age, but also for youths. The retired assistant general manager from BSNL spends three to fours hours daily watering and nurturing the trees, which he planted in the past five years near his residence after he shifted to Sanpada from Santacruz. The resident of Bhumiraj Abode has developed green belt adjacent to his building by planting as many as 250 trees. Even during summer, Patki ensured that his plants did not dry and die. Patki uses the storm water from nearby drainage to water the trees and uses vermiculture as fertiliser. Patki says he wants to grow as many trees as possible to give it as a gift to the next generation. Today, both the stretch are a fine example of how something barren and bare can be turned into something healthy.

MLA Ganesh Naik announced , “Practice examination for Marathi medium SSC students”

With an objective to eliminate the examination fear among students appearing for the forthcoming SSC board examination and to develop confidence within them, Navi Mumbai Shikshan Sankul, in coordination with the NCP, conducted a practice examination in the month of December, especially for the Marathi medium schools.
The innovative practice examination concept of NCP corporator Anant Sutar received an overwhelming response from 48 schools and more than 8,000 students had appeared for the exam, which were conducted at 10 centres across the city.
The results were declared on January 30, and meritorious students from each of the 10 centres were felicitated by the hands of MP and Rajya Sabha member Supriya Sule at a grand function held at Vishnudas Bhave auditorium in Vashi.
The top three students in the city were Nilima Khaire of Vivekanand High School, Sanpada, who topped the merit list by scoring 92.30 percent, Harshal Ahire of MGM High School, Nerul, stood second with 91.53 percent and Reshma Hussain Shaikh made it to the third position by securing 91.15 percent.
The other students were bestowed with a trophy and an appreciation certificate. The other first rankers were Akhil Bhavaskar and Shweta Dabetwar, both from Radhikabai Meghe Vidyalay, Airoli, Anamika Bhalerao of Ghansoli High School, Rahul Sawant of R F Naik Vidyalay, Bonkode, Shweta Bargode of Dnyan Vikas Vidyalay, Kopar Khairane, Maynak Mhatre of Navi Mumbai High School, Vashi, Prajakta Gunjal of Vidyabhavan, Nerul, and Avinash Bivalkar of Peoples Education Society, CBD.
The dignitaries present at the felicitation function were Thane Guardian Minister and MLA Ganesh Naik, Mayor Anjani Bhoir, Maharashtra State Secondary and Higher Secondary Board, Mumbai Division chairperson Gurunath Kanthe, former Mayor Sanjeev Naik, NMMC Standing Committee Chairman Sandeep Naik, Education Committee chairman Ravindra Ithape and other NCP corporators.
Speaking on the occasion, MP Supriya Sule said, “SSC board examination is the base of every student’s career. To make the most of the opportunity, it is important to take useful tips from experts. A teacher’s utmost dedication and selfless efforts in imparting quality education can mould the future of a student and guide them in the direction of prosperity.”
Addressing the gathering, MLA Ganesh Naik announced, “The practice examination was conducted for the first time in the city and it has received a tremendous response. The students have benefited a lot. This year, the practice exam was conducted for Marathi medium students. Next year onwards, the practice exam will be conducted for SSC as well as HSC students, belonging to both, Marathi and English mediums.”
The president of Navi Mumbai Shikshan Sankul and the Standing Committee chairman Sandeep Naik said, “This year’s SSC board examination is based on a new syllabus. Hence, it was necessary to conduct such practice examinations.”

Career guidance program held at VBA

The felicitation ceremony of the Navi Mumbai Shikshan Sankul was clubbed with a career guidance workshop by eminent expert Vinayak Manjarekar.
The topic of the workshop taken by eminent expert Vinayak Manjarekar was “Welcome to Engineering”. In his simple style and easy-to-comprehend-for-parents-and-students language, Vinayak Manjarekar delivered a very informative speech on the options that students have post secondary and higher secondary schools. His lecture had students and parents glued to their seats. Some of the significant insights that he gave to the audience included how to select courses to be pursued, the option of doing a diploma and then vocational course against doing a degree course, the reasons for confusion before selecting a course, the way to decide on what a student should pursue and the role of parents in guiding students.

Navi Mumbai fast becoming the garden city

Parks are required for public to relax and spend useful time relaxing there. By walking in open gardens, we get fresh air and those suffering from breathing problems get a breather, quite literally.
As a resident of Sector 17 Vashi for over a decade, I enjoyed the facilities available at the nearby park every morning.
After shifting to Millennium Towers, Sanpada I am really fortunate to have a park come ground in Sector 9, which is indeed a blessing in disguise for inmates of Millennium Towers.
Sportsmen can play football in the floodlights provided in the Sanpada Park. Adjacent to the Big Park there is one another park facing Sector 8 with walking tracks for early morning walkers.
Navi Mumbai has several parks. Kharghar is more fortunate to have the Hydel Park being constructed in a record time. With a golf course by the side of the park, residents of sector 35 are fortunate to get fresh air all the time. So, Navi Mumbai can really be called the Garden City.
With so much space at the disposal of NMMC, more and more parks should come up to cater to the needs of residents of Navi Mumbai.
Cidco should be complimented for making the satellite city a place worth living. However, it is upto NMMC to maintain these parks well to give best ambience all the time in the year. Generally, these parks are neglected during monsoons. Public parks are definitely a boon for the people of Navi Mumbai.

Third bridge hits eco hurdle

new connection across thane creek yet to get environment ministry's clearanceThe proposed third bridge across the Thane creek seems to be yet another casualty of environmental norms. Residents of Navi Mumbai who were elated to learn about the plans will now have to wait longer as Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) is yet to get environmental clearance for the project.
Although MSRDC officials are optimistic and hope to get the project cleared, they admit that the procedure will take some time. In the meanwhile, even the companies who have shown interest in developing the project have asked for more time to study the feasibility of the project. Considering the present situation, officials doubt if the project will take off this year.
Managing Director of MSRDC Satish Gavai said, "We had floated the tender for the project but the interested companies need more time. They wish to undertake technical study of the project. The final bids are expected to be submitted by August or September."
S D Kulkarni, executive engineer said, "The papers have been sent to the environment ministry in Delhi. We are yet to get the clearance but the process is on. A number of studies and surveys need to be conducted before starting a huge project."
The six-lane bridge is expected to cost Rs 355 crore. The first four-lane bridge over the creek was built in 1972 and is now open only for light vehicles. The second six-lane bridge was built in 1992-93. Keeping the expected growth in traffic on this route in mind, the authorities have decided to build a third bridge across the creek. With the proposed international airport and many similar mega projects like the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) taking shape in Navi Mumbai, the city is bound to witness drastic development in foreseeable future. The third bridge will also help reduce travelling time for those heading to Pune and help reduce congestion on this route, said an official.

Navi Mumbai gets e-governmence project

The central government approved Rs. 15.11 crore for an e governance project of Navi Mumbai Municipal corporation (NMMC) under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).
This is the highest allocation under the scheme for any civic corporation in India .
The project will help automation of various activates within the corporation to help provide efficient services
The central approval came on Friday following a presentation by municipal commissioner Vijay Nahata on the positive changes the project will bring about in Navi Mumbai.
The NMMC had earlier got a sanction of rs. 230.52 crore for its water supply project and Rs. 353.66 crore for its sewage treatment plant project and has received its first installment as well.
Said Nahata: “The project will help us connect all the corporation offices and also upgrade the exiting system. This will result in efficient working of the corporation that will ultimately benefit the residents.”
Added Nahata :”The project will ensure issue of birth and death certificates within half an hour .It will cut down time for other requests as well . Details about water bill. Property tax etc will be available from home or from public kiosks. Residents will not have to keep visiting our offices.”
According to Nahata :” Permissions issued by the town Planning Department will also be faster. Occupation and completion certificated will be issued within 15 days of the request of the document s are in order.”
The NMMC is expecting more approvals for its other projects.
Nahata said:”We are hopeful of getting early approval for getting early approval for the Ts. 458.87 crore project for five flyovers on palm Beach road , Rs.437.49 crore for integrated nullah projects and Rs. 62 crore for solid waste management.”

State plans heliports for satellite city

Navi Mumbai: If the latest development happening in the Mantralaya circles is to be believed then the satellite city of Navi Mumbai could soon boast of three heliports.
A heliport is a small airport like structure suitable for use by only helicopters. Well placed sources informed that the State Chief Minister (CM) Ashok Chavan while visiting the Bandra-Worli sea link last week expressed the need for heliports in the city. The idea was reportedly first floated during the tenure of the then CM Vilasrao Deshmukh.
Sources inform that Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the planning agency for Mumbai is already underway with the initial planning work for the heliports. Sources confirmed that the State administration had approached Cidco in this regard.
Cidco on its part recently suggested three sites in Navi Mumbai for these proposed heliports. One of the three sites is in Vashi while the other two are in Nerul, informed a source from Cidco. Officials on request of anonymity informed that Nariman Point, Worli along with Navi Mumbai are the sites short listed as potential sites for heliports.
The construction of these heliports will be decided after they are evaluated by independent consultants appointed by the MMRDA. Sources also quoted Chavan as saying that having a heliport in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai was the need of the hour.
When contacted, Cidco chairman, Nakul Patil confirmed the news. "We have given three options to the state for developing heliports. Our job was only to suggest the sites and the onus is on them (MMRDA) to finalise the projects," he informed. Dilip Kawathkar, joint project director, MMRDA also confirmed the proposal of developing heliports in Navi Mumbai and said that currently they were in the process of checking whether a heliport was feasible in Navi Mumbai.
What is a heliport?
The internet says that a heliport is a small airport like structure suitable for use by only helicopters. Information on a website says that heliports usually have one or more helipads along with facilities like fuel, lighting and hangars. In larger towns, custom facilities may be available at heliports.
Experts say that in large metropolis like Mumbai, heliports can be of great help for those needing to quickly move within the city or to neighbouring regions. Generally heliports are situated closer to cities and in some countries some skyscrapers also have rooftop heliports.In urban areas, these heliports are usually located on the roof of the hospital, where they serve during emergencies.

Recently planed coconut sapplings mysteriously go missing along Palm Beach Road

While the threat of Global Warming is being taken up by countries worldwide, many are busy wasting the state’s treasury in the name of nature preservation in Navi Mumbai. An example of this can be seen in the posh locality of Palm Beach Road where environment destruction continues as newly planted coconut saplings have gone missing.

The coconut saplings that were planted on the Palm Beach Road stretch by NMMC. We had highlighted how barely four weeks passing the plantation, the trees had started to dry up. The dying trees forced one to question if it was indeed wastage of the state treasury. The neglect was on part of the civic body the trees not being watered regularly. There were around 1000 coconut trees planted on this stretch of Palm Beach Road with each tree plantation costing Rs 135.

However what one would have thought should have had been an eye opener for the civic body, it was clearly neglected by them. As instead of taking care of the saplings, it has been removed. Moving from CBD to Vashi on the Palm Beach Road, while one can spot few of the coconut saplings, from the Nerul stretch, they completely disappear moving ahead to Vashi. Environmentalist Manju Ganguly called it lack of maintenance and negligence by NMMC. She expressed disappointment on the participation of the authorities towards conserving nature saying that it was mere wastage of public funds. Calling the Palm Beach Road a concrete jungle, she urged residents to take up some social responsibility. Sources reveal that the land mafia that eyes the cream prime land does not want any plantation at this mangrove stretch and this is one of the reasons why the planted saplings are not being nurtured.

NMMC provides free net access to FYJC aspirants

The NMMC Education Board has volunteered to provide free access to the registration for students seeking admission in junior colleges this year .A separate cell has been opened at the Board office from June 23.
Board Chairman Ravi Iyyer informed that the arrangement would continue till the end online registration for the current academic year.
“the help line was started for candidate who are started for candidate who are willing apply for admission through the online system introduce by the state government . Generally student‘s opt for cyber café for which they have to shell out money. Hence we decided to provide the free access and service to the needy candidate at our office,” informed lyyer.
Lyyer further informed that three computers have been dedicated for the candidates. Inverters have also been pressed into service to ensure uninterrupted connection during power cuts. More computers will be provided if there is demand. If required, the same service will be made available in computer labs in the municipal schools at Nerul, Vashi and Airoli, assured Iyyer.
Officials informed that any student can walk in the Koper Khairene Office and get the free online access. Specially trained volunteers will assist the candidates for registration and a print out of their application will be provided instantly. Official information that personal assistance, individual attention and print outs will be given free of charge. It may take maximum 3-5 minutes for processing each registration. The new venture will save the money and valuable time of the candidate.

Chief minister Ashok Chavan undertakes a spree of inaugurations in Navi Mumbai

Chief Minister Ashok Chavan was in the city for a series of event.
With assembly elections round the corner, it was day of inaugurations to woo the masses. In a schedule packed day Chief Minister Ashok Chavan first arrived at PAP Training Center at Dronagiri. The Chief Minister along with Dy. Chief Minister Chagan Bhujbal, State Environment Minister Ganesh Naik, State Energy Minister Sunil Tatkare, CIDCO Chairman Nakul Patil, CIDCO Managing Director G S Gill and Director Namdeo Bhagat inaugurated the PAP Center at Dronagiri. The PAP training center will train PAPs to attain service center skills so that they can be placed for jobs. Later the Chief Minister arrived at Urban Haat at CBD Belapur and inaugurated it officially and took a tour of Urban Haat. Following the official inauguration of Urban Haat, Chief Minister Ashok Chavan arrived at the Agri Koli project site at Nerul. He saw the project plans and the under construction Agri Koli Bhavan. MLC Manda Mhatre was also present during Chief Minister Ashok Chavan’s visit to the under construction Agri Koli Bhavan. The chain of inaugurations ended with an event at Vishnudas Bhave Auditorium where the dignitaries present addressed the gathering. During all the events, the one thing that did not miss anyone’s eyes was the division among the Navi Mumbai Congress leaders. With each faction literally trying to show each other down, desperately wanting to get the Chief Minister’s attention and proving how each one was closer to the Chief Minister more than the other.

I ‘ll talk to Centre on 2nd airport’

the Navi Mumbai airport would have Mumbai airport would have been ready by now had one of the Ambani brother been its developer and not the government , chief minister Ashok Chavan on Monday assured that the Centre’s objection to the project would be resolved soon through negotiations.
“this airport is the need of the hour and our priority is to resolve the conflict immediately so that the airport is in place before its need is felt,” he added .he, how –ever, admitted that Navi Mumbai and surrounding areas lacked proper trans –port and parking infrastructure.
Both the CM and his deputy were speaking at a Cidco function at Vishnudas Bhave Auditorium, Vashi, on Monday. It was held to mark the inauguration of an urban haat in Belapur and a vocational training centre for SEZ- and airport-affected people at Dronagiri as well as the bhoomipujan of Aagari-Koli Cultureal Centre and an exhibition centre.
Interracting with the media, Chavan said he would meet Union environment minister Jairam Ramesh to convince his ministry about the need for speedy development of the airport.
“we will follow up the matter regularly ,” Chavan said after Bhujbal’s jibe at the congress leadership .”Do we have to go 200 km out of the city to have second airport?” Bhubal, an NCP leader ,asked. Chavan said he did not want to create a controversy over the issue and that he would ensure that the centre and state resolved it as soon as possible.
To a request made by state excise minister Ganesh Naik that water transport be restored between Vashi and the Gate-way of India, Chavan assured all help from the state government.
On the power tariff issue, he said the government would soon bring load-shedding to an end in the state and also keep a check on the growing power rates.
To a query whether the state congress would go it alone in the next assembly elections, he said the party would take a decision only after discussing the issue with grassroots workers.
Energy minister Sunil Tatkare, Thane MP Sanjeev Naik , Cidco chairmen Nakul Patil, Cidco MD G S Gill, Navi Mumbai mayer Anjani Bhoir and deputy mayer Shashikant Birajdar were also present at the fuction.

NCP supremo Sharad Pawar kicks off assembly election campaign by dedicating Morbe Dam to citizens of Navi Mumbai

Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar arrived in Navi Mumbai to inaugurate the hi-tech sewerage treatment plants of NMMC and dedicate the Morbe Dam project to the Navi Mumbaikars. The Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar along with State Environment and Excise Minister Ganesh Naik first inaugurated the STP Plants of NMMC. The NMMC has built the STP plants for Rs. 200 Crore each in Nerul, Vashi and Airoli. After inaugurating the STP Plants, the NMMC team showed the working of the plant and the water purified though C-Tech in the plants to Sharad Pawar.

After the inauguration of the STP Plant, Sharad Pawar visited the NMMC Pump House at Parsik Hills and later addressed a gathering a Vishnudas Bhave auditorium. Also present were MP Dr. Sanjeev Naik, MLC Jitendra Ahwad, MLC Manda Mhatre, MLA Shashikant Shinde, Mayor Anjani Bhoir, CIDCO Chairman Nakul Patil, CIDCO MD G S Gill, NMMC Commissioner Vijay Nahata and NMMC Standing Committee Chairman Sandeep Naik. Speaking to the media, after the event he appreciated both the STP Plants and Morbe Dam projects of NMMC.

Both the projects are going to be the scoring points for any NCP-Congress candidate who contests from the two assembly constituencies in Navi Mumbai. That’s why the grand event to inaugurate the STP Plants and dedicate Morbe Dam project to Navi Mumbai seemed to be the unofficial start to the election campaigning of NCP Party in Navi Mumbai.

I would advocate contesting elections with congress –says NCP supremo Sharad Pawar

Amidst speculations of whether the alliance with the Congress stays or not, NCP Supremo Sharad Pawar has said that he personally is of the opinion that they should fight the assembly polls in alliance with Congress.
There have been reports of how the Congress is confident of winning as many as 110 to 125 seats in 288-member Maharashtra assembly should it contest the coming assembly elections on its own. The state Congress is embarking on a mega exercise as part of pre-poll preparations. The Congress will benefit and can actually win between 110 and 125 assembly seats in Maharashtra if it contested the polls on its own, an internal analysis carried out after the Lok Sabha elections suggests. This “positive” feedback has enthused a strong section within the party to make a strong pitch for going solo in the polls. They feel the party should cash in on this factor and later on tie up with the NCP. NCP Supremo Sharad Pawar during his recent visit to Navi Mumbai, to which Sharad Pawar replied that he is wants them to fight the assembly polls in alliance with Congress.

50pc quota for women:Pawar

The Center has promised of the bill as part of its 25-point agenda
Union agriculture minister and ncp chief gives a new spin to the raging issue of reservations for women
Next time you arrange a function in Navi Mumbai, you may have to reserve half the seats on the dias for women. These were the words of advice of Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar to his partymen during a function held at Vishnudas Bhave auditorium on Wednesday. Pawar was in Navi Mumbai to inaugurate the technologically-advanced Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) in Nerul and Morbe Dam
Water Supply Project at Parsik Hills, Belapur.
Pushing for 50 per cent reservation of seats for women in local self-government bodies, the NCP supremo said that his party will support the bill and first implement it in panchayats, zilla parishads, municipal councils and municipal corporations across the state as part of the 100 days agenda and then implement it in the legislative council and legislative assembly.
The Union Government has promised early passage of the Women's Reservation Bill and several other measures as part of its ambitious 25-point agenda for the first 100 days in office. Constitutional amendment to provide 50 per cent quota for women in panchayats and urban local bodies, a national mission on empowerment of women and concerted efforts to increase representation of women in Central government jobs are some of the points in the agenda.
Lauding the efforts of NMMC in developing such an advanced STP and securing the water requirements of the fast-growing city by buying the Morbe dam, Pawar stressed the need for each municipal corporation to be self-reliant and sufficient in procuring basic requirements like water.
Citing the example of Pune where four dams are proving insufficient to meet the water needs of the expanding city, Pawar said, "As cities expand, the majority of the water secured by developing dams is utilised for domestic use while agriculture suffers. Not only did NMMC buy a dam and provide water meters to supply water and tap on losses, but also develop a STP to recycle water. Their efforts are worth appreciating."
Stressing on the need for latest scientific technology for advancement, Pawar said these projects are a move in the right direction.

Navi Mumbai to get 24-hr water supply

In one month’s time Navi Mumbai will get 24-hour water supply.
The Morbe Dam pipeline from kalamboli to Digha is complete and will be inaugurated on Wednesday by Central Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar.
The Rs. 200-crore project, assigned to Pratibha Industries, consists of a 42 km connecting lines.
It also includes two sterilization plants at CBD and Mahape and Parsik Hill in Nerul will have a master balancing reservoir. A garden development on the tank switchgear room and pump house.
Vice President of Pratibha Industries, Sharad Despande said:”The reservoir, which is at a height
Of 65 meters can store 32 million liters of water. The water from Morbe Dam will first come here and then get supplied to the city”.
Deshpande added:” there is minimal use of electricity through the use natural elevations and slopes. Morbe Dam water will be pumped into the height of 65m i.e. 213.feet above sea level to the MBR and supplied to the city using gravitational pull.”

The function of releasing and controlling the water will be done at the switchgear room which has two 3,000KVA transformers. There is also a 2,000KVA DG backup in case of power failure. There are six motor pumps 1,000 hr power each.

Work on Navi Mumbai airport to begin in 2010

The work on the Greenfield airport near Navi Mumbai is expected to start by February 2010 . The state Government has decided to lay down the foundation stone for the airport next year.
At a recent meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Johny appoint an officer on special duty to oversee the work on the airport to be developed through public-private part-nership.
The rehabilitation work for the land acquired would take off in August , aspacial acquisition officer would transfer 458 hectares of government land to CIDCO for the same .
The airport in its first phase itself will have two parallel runway for simultaneous and segregated parallel operation, instead of only one runway in the first phase.
Mumbai International Airport Limited is most likely to win the bid for developing the airport since it has first right of refusal.

Navi Mumbai to get first elevated Metro rail by 20013

Of the 12 suggestions put forward by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for the metro rail project in Navi Mumbai, City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) has accepted three suggestions.
In the first phase, CIDCO will develop metro rail along the 24 kms stretch of Belapur-Kharghar-Taloja-Kalamboli-Mansarovar route. The second phase will be developed along 19 km stretch of Mankhurd-Vashi-International airport and the third phase along 14 km stretch of Kharkopar-Ulwe-International airport, informed CIDCO Chairman Nakul Patil while addressing media at Belapur Bhavan on Thursday. Divulging more details, Patil said the cost of the project will be Rs 140 crore for each kilometer. DMRC will act as technical advisor for the project .
"DMRC will now prepare a detailed project report and work will begin accordingly. The entire stretch will be elevated and underground passage has been ruled out. DMRC had approached IIT, Powai to conduct a study of the population growth of Navi Mumbai and accordingly draft a travel model to suit the needs of the projected 40 lakh population in the next ten years. IIT's suggestions will be incorporated while drafting the detailed project report," he said.
CIDCO, however, has still not decided on a revenue model for the project and will do so after receiving the final project report, an official said. The metro rail project will provide the much-needed connectivity to the proposed airport in Navi Mumbai and help residents of both Mumbai and Navi Mumbai commute to the airport, assured Patil. The aim is to enable a passenger to reach the Panvel airport from South Mumbai at the earliest, he said. When questioned about the CRZ clearance for any land falling under mangroves, CIDCO officials assured that the Corporation already has acquired land for the project and the High Court has given its nod for all infrastructural projects

Towards a clean and green city

On one hand, there is more greenery in areas that are left untouched. For example, at the end of sector 8 in Vashi mangroves have really grown over the last 20 years. On the other, mangroves are being destroyed in certain areas. Nature just needs to be left alone in order to thrive," says M Jacob who has been living in Navi Mumbai for the past 22 years.
Environmental awareness:
Recently, many residents and joggers associations like Parsik Hills Walkers Association and Vashi Joggers Ecological Movement have been active in advocating environmental issues. Many schools in Navi Mumbai are actively involved in regular tree plantation drives.
children are the key when it comes to environmental awareness. "To create awareness school children need to be targeted. Probably one could approach their parents to reach out to housing societies.
The Indian Women's Scientists Association (IWSA) has started a new programme involving schoolchildren and teachers in the city collecting environmental data as well as creating awareness. However, she feels that there is lack of adequate dedicated activists and sufficient people's participation in the decision making process.
Solar heaters, windmills and rainwater harvesting are positive developments in some housing societies. Activists are of the opinion that the NMMC should look into making these measures mandatory for new buildings. plastic bags and littering are major problems more so because of citizens lack of concern for the environment than negligence of authorities.

Mangroves:
There are many superior species of mangroves in Navi Mumbai. Mangroves are unique trees that grow only in saline conditions. They shelter marine, bird and insect life.
The common Avicennia is an abundant species of mangrove plant found in Navi Mumbai. So also the blinding tree (called so because the juice blinds the eyes) and the apple mangrove.
Says Jacob, "In many places the mangroves are being mercilessly hacked. Locals are building ponds for pisciculture. Often there are fires in the mangroves belt. No one knows who does this or even who is responsible for the preservation of mangroves.
The authorities are busy passing the buck. There is also dumping of waste in the mangroves and creation of bunds in the mangrove areas. Subsistence of the mangroves depends on the tides and flooding or controlling the flow of water to them that affects their growth."

the holding ponds created by CIDCO in Vashi and Kopar Khairane are very important and specially designed for holding rainwater and preventing flooding.
Well meaning corporators are filling up portions of the ponds for lawns and gardens but this lowers the carrying capacity of the ponds. Many systematic encroachments are also taking place in both garden areas and water bodies. This should be prevented as the gardens in the city act as major sinks of different air pollutants while the water bodies prevent flooding.

Save environment to ensure a better future

Every year we celebrate World Environment Day on June 5. Degradation of environment has been worrying the world. Vast areas of green land have been ravaged leading to ecological imbalance. Unless we respect the environment all our effort for development can only being negative result. The belief that humans are the master of the natural world needs to be re-evaluated. India with its reach heritage of medicinal plants and wild life is playing a leading role in trying to save our rich heritage through public awareness.
Development work like buildings, dams, roads, bridges possess a major threat to the ecological balance of our country. Falling of trees to build and expand township as also by the tribels for firewood is seriously threatening the environment. Across the globe up to 24.4 million of hectares of forest is vanishing every year. One reason is human greed, wood is need for building, furniture, fuel, paper and industry.
Demand is increasing by leaps and bounds. The need for fire wood also destroying forests. In India, people living around national sanctuaries are forced to cut trees in the forest for their needs. There are controlled ways of cutting trees which can be replaced by planting sapling. But who bothers?
In our country situation is very grave. People awareness and active involvement is necessary to protect our environment. On our part, we can do a lot to save our decaying cities. If possible educate the poor on the benefits of having small family. Every little thoughtful act will help our city survive.

NGO for women gets land on lease

CIDCO allots 14,000 sq ft plot at Sector 18 in Koparkhairane to Stree Mukti Sanghatana
Stree Mukti Sanghatana (SMS), an autonomous body which is working towards women's development since 1975, recently acquired a land from City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) for a period of 60 years.
Thirtyfour years into its formation, the association was conducting its activity across Navi Mumbai and Mumbai in rented premises and community centre of Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC). This will be first official centre of the organization and the construction work will commence from next month.
An area admeasuring 14,000 sq ft was allotted by CIDCO to the organization at sector 18 in Koparkhairane. The association will be constructing a multi-facility structure with state-of-the-art amenities for women. Starting with crèche to working women's hostel, the construction work is expected to be completed within six months.
"We have been working in Navi Mumbai for the past 20 years, however, with lack of proper space the kind of activities held was on low scale. The land was allotted three years back, but we got the possession after we paid the required fees," secretary of the association Sharada Sathe said.
The association has branches all over the state and has been actively working in rendering help to the needy and ill-treated women. Conducting counselling sessions and imparting knowledge on vocational courses, the primary motto of the association is betterment of the women population.
"The centre will look into upliftment of women in any walk of life. It's keeping this in view that the centre will attempt to provide job opportunity and means towards financial independence. The acquisition of the land is a major achievement for the association that would go a long way in promoting our activity," Sathe added.

World Environment day observed in Mumbai

With observance of Environment Day, Department of Environment – Government of Maharashtra and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board organized a meet where present as the chief guest was Chief Minister Ashok Chavan. Also present was Deputy Chief Minister Chaggan Bhujbal, Minister for Environment and Excise Ganesh Naik, State Minister for Environment Vijay Wadettiwar and Chairperson of MPCB Valsa Nair amongst others. The opening ceremony was performed by Chief Minister Ashok Chavan after which all those present took an oath of preserving and conserving our nature. This was followed by a book launch where two books named Gatha Gynachi and Jaagar Paryavaracha was presented. On the day, Chief Minister Ashok Chavan stated that not just the state, but the involvement of NGOs and social organizations was very important in conserving environment. He further stated that political parties will also add this as an important agenda in their manifesto.