A large-scale redevelopment initiative has been proposed for nearly 14,000 hutments located around Gilbert Hill in Andheri West, Mumbai. The project will cover an area exceeding 100 acres, where dense informal settlements have developed over time, raising concerns related to safety, infrastructure gaps, and unregulated growth.
Authorities are planning to implement the project under a cluster redevelopment model, which involves consolidating multiple land parcels to enable planned and systematic construction. This approach is expected to optimise land use while ensuring that eligible residents are rehabilitated within the same locality. Officials believe that such a model will also facilitate the creation of better road networks, improved sanitation systems, and additional open spaces—amenities that are currently limited due to high congestion in the area.
The settlements lie in close proximity to Gilbert Hill, a protected geological formation estimated to be around 66 million years old. Over the years, encroachments have come up near its base, raising concerns about structural risks, including potential landslides during heavy rainfall. Civic authorities have been monitoring the situation and have previously highlighted the need for regulated development in the surrounding zone.
Earlier proposals by local authorities had focused on preserving the hill while improving its accessibility and surroundings. These included clearing encroachments, upgrading approach roads, and exploring the site’s potential as a tourist and educational destination. However, implementation remained slow due to the scale of habitation and the complexities involved in rehabilitation.
With the current redevelopment plan, officials aim to address both housing shortages and urban planning challenges in a coordinated manner. By reorganising fragmented settlements into structured layouts, the project seeks to create a more planned residential environment while maintaining community continuity.
The proposal is expected to proceed after obtaining necessary approvals and completing the verification process for eligible beneficiaries, which remains a critical step in cluster redevelopment projects across Mumbai.
Source: Prop News Time
