The government of Maharashtra has announced the opening of 28 new shelters, providing lodging for some 850 homeless people. This comes after the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) brought attention to the city’s inadequate shelter system.
A 2022 report that condemned Mumbai for running only 23 of the 125 shelter homes ordered by the Supreme Court was previously taken suo motu cognisance of by the SHRC, which was chaired by Justices K. K. Tated and M. A. Sayeed. The Commission ordered the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and other pertinent authorities to address this failure.
In response to criticism, the chief secretary of Maharashtra provided an affidavit outlining corrective actions, including the construction of 28 new shelters and plans for additional facilities. To aid in these efforts, organisations such as the Mumbai Port Trust and MHADA have donated assets and land.
However, the need for accountability was highlighted by the SHRC’s criticism of the BMC’s previous “casual and repetitive” replies. Although the recently constructed shelters represent a major advancement in Mumbai’s urban housing dilemma, the statistics highlight how serious the problem is. With an estimated 57,000 homeless people, a city like Mumbai needs far more infrastructure to provide its citizens with safety, respect, and housing.
This program is to be overseen by the Rajyastariya Nivara Saniyantran Committee, which is led by retired IAS official Ujjwal Uke. By working together with stakeholders and local governments, it seeks to expedite the transfer of idle land and guarantee prompt action. Although the establishment of these shelters is a positive step, continued dedication is required to meet the challenges that lie ahead. The Maharashtra government should prioritise improving the quality of amenities, expanding infrastructure, and tackling the structural problems that contribute to homelessness in Mumbai’s urban environment.
Source: Urban Acres
