The Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC), established in 2009, has finally resolved a major issue that had lingered for 14 years. In a significant development, 189 properties that were once listed under the names of gram panchayats during pre-corporation days have now been officially registered under the corporation’s name in the revenue department’s records. This marks the end of a prolonged period of legal and administrative challenges.
Background: From Gram Panchayats to a Unified Corporation
The VVMC was established on July 3, 2009, to unify the governance of four municipal councils and 52 gram panchayats in Vasai taluka. However, despite this unification, a significant number of properties—such as gram panchayat offices, community halls, divisional offices, open spaces, roads, and other assets—remained under the names of the original gram panchayats.
This situation created a peculiar scenario where the VVMC held the administrative authority, but the ownership of properties legally belonged to the erstwhile gram panchayats. This discrepancy led to frequent legal complications, especially when it came to development projects, maintenance, and utilization of these properties.
According to Nana Kamthe, Deputy Commissioner of the Property Department at VVMC, a total of 251 properties were under the names of gram panchayats. To address this issue, the municipal corporation established a dedicated property department last year. The department undertook a meticulous survey to locate and identify these properties, ensuring their proper registration under VVMC’s name.
189 Properties Registered; Work Continues
Of the 251 identified properties, 189 have now been successfully transferred to VVMC’s name in the revenue department’s official land records. The process for registering the remaining properties is ongoing and expected to be completed soon. Kamthe confirmed that this achievement resolves a long-standing hurdle for VVMC and sets the stage for smoother governance and development.
Securing Vacant Plots
In addition to the properties transferred from the gram panchayats, VVMC has identified and secured 66 additional vacant plots through a detailed survey. Furthermore, the district administration has handed over 14 plots to the municipal corporation. This brings the total to 50 vacant plots now under VVMC’s jurisdiction.
These plots, which were previously unguarded and at risk of encroachment, are being fenced off to ensure their protection. The market value of these plots is estimated to be in the multi-crore range, making them valuable assets for the municipal corporation.
VVMC’s Expanding Assets
With these additions, VVMC’s total landholdings now include 852 properties across its jurisdiction, which spans 420 hectares. The assets encompass a wide variety of spaces, including those inherited from the gram panchayats and municipal councils, as well as properties allocated by the state government and other departments.
The successful transfer of ownership not only adds to VVMC’s financial and administrative strength but also eliminates ambiguities that previously hindered efficient urban planning and infrastructure development.
Challenges and Future Plans
The process of transferring ownership was not without its challenges. Many properties had incomplete documentation or outdated land records, necessitating extensive groundwork by VVMC officials. The involvement of the revenue department was crucial in updating the official records to reflect the new ownership.
Looking ahead, VVMC plans to utilize these properties and vacant plots for various public projects, including parks, community centers, and essential infrastructure. Kamthe highlighted that the corporation will continue to safeguard its assets and ensure that all future acquisitions are promptly documented to avoid similar issues.
Implications for the City
The resolution of property ownership issues marks a turning point for VVMC. By consolidating its assets, the corporation is better equipped to address the city’s growing needs. Vasai-Virar is among the fastest-growing urban areas in the region, and the demand for public services, housing, and infrastructure is on the rise.
The transfer of properties also opens up opportunities for VVMC to attract investment and undertake large-scale development projects without the fear of legal roadblocks. With a clear legal framework for property ownership, the corporation can now focus on improving the quality of life for its residents.
Conclusion
The end of VVMC’s 14-year struggle to secure ownership of properties previously under gram panchayats is a noteworthy milestone in its journey. This achievement underscores the importance of meticulous administrative work and inter-departmental cooperation in resolving complex legal and governance challenges.
As VVMC moves forward with these newly secured assets, the city can look forward to a more streamlined approach to urban development and public service delivery. For residents of Vasai-Virar, this is a promising step toward a better-managed and more prosperous city.
