Families set to be displaced under the Elphinstone redevelopment project have voiced concerns about loss of income and the terms of rehabilitation, arguing that while they are being allotted larger homes, their means of livelihood are at risk. However, Additional Collector Shivaji Davbhat has maintained that the rehabilitation package offers greater financial value than the properties being surrendered.
Residents claim that commercial units are being taken away and replaced with residential flats, raising fears about sustaining their businesses. Many say the loss of shop space could directly impact household earnings.
According to the administration, the average shop size in the redevelopment cluster is 135 sq ft, with an estimated market value of around Rs 26 lakh. In contrast, the rehabilitation flats being offered are valued between Rs 70 lakh and Rs 80 lakh.
“The houses allotted are significantly higher in market value than the shops surrendered,” said Davbhat. “Yes, they will have to look for space to continue their business, but residents were informed earlier that only residential units would be allotted.” He further stated that while beneficiaries are entitled to 300 sq ft units under policy norms, Elphinstone residents are being assured 400 sq ft flats. “If the house is smaller, we are paying the difference.”
Under the project, 119 units across Haji Noorani and Lakshmi Niwas are slated for demolition. Of these, 83 families have been deemed eligible for permanent rehabilitation. Authorities have secured 78 MHADA flats, while five families have opted for monetary compensation instead.
Some residents have requested flats within a 2.5 km radius and expressed willingness to pay extra for closer accommodation. Davbhat responded, “Some who agreed earlier secured nearby units. At present, there are no MHADA homes available there.”
Addressing concerns about location and neighbourhoods, Davbhat said beneficiaries would receive full ownership rights with no restrictions on resale. “Each flat is worth over Rs 70 lakh. Beneficiaries can sell and buy where they prefer,” he said, adding that while authorities ensure financial parity, they cannot regulate social perceptions.
Source: Mid-day
