A draft of the Maharashtra government’s 2024 housing policy was made public on Friday. The new policy, which was unveiled shortly before the assembly elections, aims to solve the housing difficulties facing the state with an emphasis on delivering sustainable and affordable housing options, giving priority to Economically Disadvantaged Sections (EWS). It has been 17 years since the implementation of the previous strategy in 2007.
The main focus of the new housing strategy is on providing affordable homes for middle-class and lower-class individuals as well as those who are economically disadvantaged. This is in contrast to the 2007 policy, which placed more of an emphasis on the rehabilitation of urban slums.
Additionally, the policy include targeted housing programs for particular demographic groups, including but not limited to senior persons, working women, students, and industrial workers. These programs seek to be more inclusive by catering to the various housing demands of various industries. It is noteworthy that the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has been ordered to set aside 10–30% of its land for worker housing, as part of the “walk-to-work concept” for industrial workers.
The proposal states that Maharashtra has a serious housing deficit, especially in its larger cities. By 2027, the state wants to develop 19 lakh homes, yet obstacles still exist. These consist of hard to come by funding choices, poor infrastructure, and challenges with land acquisition. In order to solve these issues, encourage sustainable growth, and provide affordable housing for everybody, a comprehensive housing policy is necessary. The state’s expanding population and changing economic landscape highlight the necessity for well-thought-out policies that can adapt to the changing needs of its constituents.
Source: The Indian Express
