Way off: diplomatic enclave in Airoli has no takers

“We don’t expect developed countries but have been targeting developing countries with plans to extend their offices. As land prices is Mumbai are soaring,this can provide a better option. We don’t expect Consul Generals to shift base,but would like to see economic attaches,visa services and sub-governmental bodies shift here,” said CIDCO MD and vice-chairman G S Gill.

When the project was designed,the economy was booming,he said. “Representatives of 10 countries had visited the site and were satisfied. But after the slowdown,none of the countries was ready to invest.”

CIDCO plans the IDE on 27 hectares with the help of a Singapore-based firm. “It will have an aesthetically designed yet effective screening system for visitors. Consulates have the option of another layer of security on their plots,” said D V Shekdar,chief architect and planner,CIDCO.

CIDCO officials said the IDE has provisions for a world class housing complex with preferably a high-end school,including a short-stay service apartment with convenience shops for visiting diplomats.

But many question the location. “Why would embassies come to Airoli? There are other locations in Navi Mumbai,where this project can be shifted,” said a senior officer with a state infrastructure agency.

Gill said,“Airoli is as near the airport as South Mumbai is. It will help when the Navi Mumbai airport comes up.”