Navi Mumbai: The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), once praised for its role in providing affordable housing and developing Navi Mumbai, is now facing criticism for its alleged misallocation of resources. CIDCO is reportedly investing heavily in a luxury housing project on Palm Beach Road in Belapur, designed for MLAs, MPs, and senior officials, at a staggering cost. A substantial portion of this expenditure of Rs. 28 crores will be allocated solely for consultancy services.

Despite acquiring land at discounted rates intended for affordable housing and a well-planned city, CIDCO has been accused of prioritizing contractors, builders, and politicians over the common people. The planned housing complex on Palm Beach Road, which will consist of approximately 550 high-end residences, stands in stark contrast to the struggles faced by project victims who have yet to receive their full 12.5% compensation, even after 50 to 60 years.

CIDCO's alleged focus on luxury projects rather than addressing the needs of ordinary citizens is evident in its recent actions. Senior officials have laid the groundwork for the luxurious housing complex while continuing to sell strategic plots to builders. Critics, including Gajanan Kale, Chairman of the CIDCO Rights Redressal Committee, claim that CIDCO’s housing complexes in Taloja, Kharghar, and Dronagiri, built through corrupt practices, are of inferior quality and prone to rapid deterioration.

Kale also highlighted a recent example of corruption, where CIDCO reportedly paid nearly 800 crores to a private organization for housing under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. He criticized CIDCO's management, pointing out that despite these large investments, CIDCO houses remain unsold while the organization continues to focus on luxury projects.

Kale has warned that if CIDCO does not reconsider its decision to hire a consultant at the cost of Rs. 28 crores, he will organize an exhibition to expose the issues with CIDCO's housing projects and advocate for the cancellation of the consultant’s appointment. This move aims to draw attention to the disparity between CIDCO’s lavish undertakings and the needs of ordinary citizens, urging a re-evaluation of the corporation’s priorities and practices.