K.K. Tated, J.

Heard the learned counsel for the parties. This is a Reference under section 18 of the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 (said Act) for detaining the compensation in respect of the acquired land.

2. Few facts of the matter are, as under:

The Dy. Chief Engineer, Construction, Metropolitan Transport Project (Railways), Vashi, Navi Mumbai had forwarded a proposal to the Collector, Mumbai Suburban District by letter dated 05.11.1996 for acquiring the claimant's land admeasuring 800.70 sq.mtr. from CTS No.90 (pt) of village Vikhroli, Tq. Kurla, Mumbai Suburban District for laying of 5th and 6th railway line between Kurla and Thane for Central Railways. Pursuant to the said request, the Special Land Acquisition Officer (SLAO), after following due process of law issued Notification under section 4 dated 1st September, 1997 of the said Act. Same was published in Government Gazette, Konkan Division Supplement dated 25.09.1997 at page Nos.704 and 705. Same was also published in daily news papers "Loksatta" dated 22.09.1997 and "Indian Express" dated 24.09.1997. Thereafter