NGT Clears the Way for Shah Rukh Khan’s Mannat Renovation, Upholds CRZ Approval
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has upheld the renovation plans for Shah Rukh Khan’s famed residence, Mannat, located in Bandra. The tribunal dismissed an appeal from activist Santosh Daundkar, who argued that the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) improperly granted Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance for the project. The NGT’s ruling confirms that the renovation, which includes adding two upper floors, complies with existing regulations and can proceed as planned.
NGT Dismisses Appeal Against Renovation
The NGT’s decision came swiftly, as the bench, led by Justice Dinesh Kumar Singh and Dr. Vijay Kulkarni, rejected the appeal at the admission stage. The tribunal found that the arguments presented by Daundkar lacked merit. The renovation work is situated in a CRZ-II area, which is permissible under the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification of 2019. The tribunal emphasized that the existing structure of Mannat predates the CRZ clearance, and the proposed changes involve only the addition of two upper floors to create a duplex flat.
The renovation plans will expand Mannat to include two basement levels, a ground floor, and eight upper residential floors, reaching a total height of 37.54 meters. The MCZMA had approved the project on January 3, and the NGT’s ruling allows it to move forward without further legal hindrance.
Details of the Renovation Project
The plot on which Mannat stands is classified as a residential zone according to the Development Plan 2034 and is not designated for public use. The project has also received plan approval from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) as of November 7, 2024. The renovation aims to enhance the property while adhering to the regulatory framework established for coastal areas.
During the tribunal proceedings, Daundkar’s legal team was asked to identify any procedural errors in the clearance process. However, the bench noted that the counsel failed to provide substantial evidence or documentation to support their claims. Notably, they did not challenge a crucial CRZ No Objection Certificate (NOC) from June 23, 2008, which raised questions about the timeliness of their appeal.
Implications of the Tribunal’s Ruling
With the NGT’s dismissal of the appeal, Shah Rukh Khan’s renovation project for Mannat is now officially cleared to proceed. The ruling underscores the tribunal’s commitment to upholding regulatory compliance while allowing property owners to enhance their residences within established guidelines. The decision reflects a balance between environmental regulations and individual property rights, particularly in high-profile cases involving celebrities.
As the renovation moves forward, it is expected to attract significant attention, given Shah Rukh Khan’s status as one of Bollywood’s most prominent figures. The project not only represents a personal investment for the actor but also highlights the ongoing discussions surrounding coastal regulations and urban development in Mumbai.
Future Developments
As the renovation progresses, it will be interesting to observe how it impacts the surrounding community and the broader discourse on coastal management in urban areas. The NGT’s ruling may set a precedent for similar cases in the future, particularly as more high-profile individuals seek to develop or renovate properties in coastal zones. The outcome of this case could influence public perception and regulatory approaches to celebrity projects in Mumbai and beyond.
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