October 31, 2025: In a major crackdown on non-compliant developers, the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) has issued ‘stop work’ notices to 140 slum redevelopment projects across Mumbai for violations including rent arrears, failure to follow pollution-control norms, and non-transfer of project-affected flats. The SRA has stated that these orders will be revoked only after the deficiencies are rectified and verified through inspection.
A senior SRA official confirmed that 64 of the affected projects were found to have pending rent arrears despite repeated warnings. Complaints from slum residents prompted the authority to act, as developers continued construction without clearing dues. “These orders will be lifted only after these shortcomings are addressed and inspected,” said the official.
Apart from rent arrears, notices were served to 20 schemes for not implementing pollution control measures, four for failing to transfer project-affected flats, six due to court orders, 30 for not paying concessional instalments, and 16 for other violations.
To combat rising pollution levels, the SRA had mandated dust control, site covering, and regular water spraying at all construction sites. However, inspections revealed that many developers ignored these norms, forcing the authority to intervene.
The SRA has also intensified efforts to recover outstanding rent from developers. Following the amendment empowering it to seize properties of defaulters, rent collection has significantly improved. So far, Rs 735 crore in arrears has been recovered, and developers have paid Rs 902 crore in rent across 307 new schemes, amounting to Rs 1,600 crore distributed to slum dwellers.
Officials warned that if developers continue to neglect compliance, stricter enforcement actions will follow, including potential property seizures under the amended law.
Source: Loksatta
