The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has officially initiated one of its most ambitious slum rehabilitation projects to date, targeting the restoration of 14,000 huts in Rajiv Gandhi Nagar, Malad (Malvani), under the Zopu Yojana scheme. This marks a major milestone in Mumbai’s efforts to redevelop stalled slum projects and provide long-overdue relief to thousands of residents.
The project, spread over 51 hectares, was previously delayed for over 15 years due to financial and technical challenges, despite a private developer being appointed. Now, under the directive of the state government, MHADA’s Mumbai Board has taken charge and is moving swiftly to bring the plan to life.
On 12 April, MHADA issued a tender to appoint an architect and consultant who will be responsible for designing the master plan and managing the overall execution of the project, including overseeing the tendering process. The development is expected to take six years to complete.
Out of the 21 Zopu Yojana schemes handed over to MHADA, 17 have been deemed feasible and will be executed by the Mumbai Board. The Board has already launched projects such as Jagruti Zopu Yojana in Chembur, Sai Baba Zopu Yojana in Jogeshwari & Shramik Nagar redevelopment in Kurla
Letters of Intent (LOIs) have been received for these projects, which will soon enter the execution stage.
Unlike the previously approved schemes, which span 1,500 to 2,008 square metres, the Rajiv Gandhi Nagar Rehabilitation Scheme is by far the largest, offering not only relief to over 14,000 slum dwellers but also promising a significant stock of additional housing units to MHADA for future allotment. The final count of these new homes will be announced once the project plan is approved.
With this revival, MHADA is reaffirming its commitment to inclusive urban development and setting a new benchmark in slum rehabilitation in Mumbai.
Source: Lokmat Times
