Navi Mumbai News: Former MLA Sandeep Naik Slams CIDCO For Dumping Debris In Seawoods’ Lotus Lake

Former MLA Sandeep Naik has raised strong objections to CIDCO's decision to dump debris into the ecologically significant Lotus Lake in Seawoods.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, both Deputy Chief Ministers, the Urban Development and Forest Ministers, CIDCO officials, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation, and the District Collector, Naik has demanded an immediate stop to the dumping activity and called for accountability of those responsible.

The lake, spread over approximately 7.5 hectares in Plot No. 2, Sector 27 of Seawoods, has recently witnessed dumping of debris from the Navi Mumbai International Airport construction site—allegedly with CIDCO’s permission. The lake, known for its dense mangroves and seasonal bloom of thousands of lotus flowers, was officially recognized as a wetland in 2017.

As per Thane District Tehsildar records, the area—Survey No. 6 in Darave—has been classified as an important ecological site, serving as a fishing zone, water source, groundwater recharge site, and a vital habitat for migratory birds and other species.

Naik alleged that despite its protected status, CIDCO has violated environmental norms by facilitating the dumping. He has demanded an investigation into the officials who permitted the transport and disposal of debris from Raigad district into the lake.

Highlighting CIDCO’s repeated attempts to degrade Navi Mumbai's environment, Naik cited the case of the DPS Lake in the NRI area, which was saved only due to relentless activism. Drawing parallels, he extended his full support to the current movement by local environmentalists who have united to save Lotus Lake from destruction.

Calling for immediate intervention, Naik urged authorities to safeguard Navi Mumbai’s natural heritage before irreversible damage is done.