The new guideline issued by the Defence Ministry which reduced the buffer zone of a Naval establishment to 50 metres from 500 metres has come as a big relief to many. Those whose homes or establishments fell within the earlier 500-m buffer zone, can now go ahead with construction after getting a no-objection certificate from the civic building proposal department. Residents welcomed the ministry’s move but were unsure about getting the requisite permission.

Ghatkopar residents who were affected by the earlier buffer zone said that though the Defence Ministry’s December 23 order made way for building construction and repairs, they are unsure about how the same would be implemented. They further questioned if the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation will clear their proposals which have been pending for 8-10 years. A civic official, on the condition of anonymity, said that they would start giving permission to builders and developers in a week.