Surveys to facilitate development of the Third Mumbai in Raigad, named as Karnala-Sai-Chirner New Town (KSC New Town) aiming to enhance connectivity and reduce travel time between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, will be conducted in 2025. This ambitious project is likely to house 65% of the nation’s data centers, establishing itself as a significant tech hub.
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) recently invited private firms to undertake comprehensive aerial surveys and ground studies across 124 villages, covering 323.44 square kilometers. This area predominantly consists of hills, forests, and farmland.
Initial surveys will employ drone technology, followed by detailed analyses using Lidar and other advanced methods. “As part of the survey process, the MMRDA will appoint a consultant to oversee aerial surveys, perform ground verifications, and gather land ownership data, ultimately creating a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based map,” sources said.
Additionally, a private entity will be engaged to develop a vision document, comprehensive master plan, and detailed development strategy for KSC New Town. The comprehensive master plan is anticipated to be completed by August 2026, with initial aerial and ground studies projected to take six to eight months.
The new town covers 324 sq km and comprises 124 villages, with 80 under Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA), 33 under the Khopta New Town Notified Area, two under the Mumbai Metropolitan Regional Plan, and nine under the Raigad Regional Plan.
The state government designated MMRDA as the New Town Development Authority (NTDA) for Third Mumbai. This area includes the Navi Mumbai end of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL).
As per the government resolution, MMRDA will prepare detailed planning proposals and development regulations for the notified area. The authority has also been granted land acquisition powers and must allocate budget provisions for this process.
MMRDA envisions a sustainable, greenfield business hub with smart city amenities, mixed-use spaces, and integrated residential areas to boost job creation and economic growth in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
MMRDA also plans to adopt the CIDCO funding model, offering developed land as compensation instead of direct monetary payments.
