Bombay HC Clears Way for Nagpur STP Project After Rejecting Builder’s Land Plea
Nagpur, August 27, 2026: The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has rejected a petition by Shree Ganesh Builders challenging the acquisition of nearly 12.12 hectares of land for a sewerage treatment plant (STP). The ruling clears a major legal hurdle for the long-delayed Pohra River Pollution Abatement Project.
Court Rejects Claim of Lapsed Land Reservation
The land has been reserved since 2001 under the city's Development Plan for a drainage and sewerage disposal scheme. The builder had argued that the reservation had lapsed under Section 127 of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act.
The court rejected the claim, holding that the purchase notice issued by the builder in 2014 was legally defective.
Why the Builder’s Notice Was Rejected
The court found that the 2014 purchase notice covered three different land parcels whose ownership records were in the names of three separate legal entities. Despite Nagpur Municipal Corporation raising the issue and seeking supporting documents, the defect was not corrected.
The court also noted that the builder later participated in the acquisition proceedings, including hearings and compensation claims.
₹11.77 Crore Compensation Already Deposited
The court upheld the October 29, 2025 acquisition award and noted that around ₹11.77 crore in compensation had already been deposited with the Land Acquisition Officer.
The judges described the builder's challenge to the acquisition as without basis, while maintaining the existing status quo for another four weeks.
STP Project Can Now Move Forward
The acquired land has been identified as a suitable location for an STP and pumping station under the state-funded Pohra River Pollution Abatement Project. The facility is expected to reduce pressure on Nagpur's existing sewage treatment infrastructure and support the city's growing population.
Grihik Takeaway: The ruling highlights how land reservations for public infrastructure can remain legally protected for years when authorities follow the acquisition process. For property owners and developers, it also underlines the importance of issuing legally valid notices and maintaining consistency throughout land acquisition proceedings.