October 23, 2025: The Maharashtra government has issued a major directive mandating that all slum rehabilitation projects in the state must now allocate at least 35% of their total area as open space. The decision follows a Bombay High Court order dated June 19, 2025, emphasising strict implementation of the Development Control and Promotion Regulation (DCPR) 2034, which prescribes a 65:35 ratio between built-up and open areas.
An official Government Resolution (GR) issued on October 10, 2025, confirmed the move. The High Court directive came after a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the NGO Alliance for Governance and Renewal (NAGAR) and others, questioning the lack of open areas in Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) developments.
To ensure compliance, a Special Monitoring Committee has been established within the SRA, chaired by the Deputy Chief Engineer. This committee will review each project, prepare quarterly reports, and publish findings online for public and judicial scrutiny.
The government has clarified that if any project exceeds the 65% construction limit or fails to provide the required 35% open space, corrective measures will be ordered, and disciplinary action may follow against responsible officials.
The open spaces are not to remain vacant but must be developed into parks, gardens, walking tracks, and recreation zones with sanitation, lighting, and safety features. Developers must transfer these spaces to the municipal corporation within 90 days of obtaining the Occupation Certificate and deposit funds for maintenance, along with a three-year indemnity.
The SRA will also submit biannual reports to the Bombay High Court, ensuring continuous judicial oversight. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to “strictly implement” the High Court’s directives, promoting better environmental and community standards in Mumbai’s redevelopment landscape.
Source: The CSR Journal
