The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a plan to improve essential infrastructure in Koliwada villages and tribal settlements across Mumbai, with work scheduled to begin in the current financial year.
Mumbai and its suburbs are home to 31 koliwadas, several gaothans, and over 30 tribal padas. Many of these areas continue to lack adequate civic amenities, causing daily challenges for residents. To address these gaps, the civic body has decided to conduct a comprehensive survey of all such settlements and roll out infrastructure upgrades in phases.
The proposed works include the installation of proper water channels, the provision of household tap connections, the improvement of internal pathways, the construction of toilets, and the development of facilities catering to women and persons with disabilities. Under the “Water for All” policy, the BMC has stated that tap connections will be provided to every household based on demand, ensuring a reliable water supply.
The initiative aligns with provisions under the Development Plan 2034, which introduced Development Control Regulations (DCR) for the redevelopment of Koliwadas, gaothans, and Adivasi padas. These regulations are expected to facilitate improved infrastructure by allowing a higher floor space index (FSI) in areas with 9- and 12-metre-wide roads. Officials believe this will help bring these settlements at par with other parts of the city in terms of civic amenities.
In addition to infrastructure upgrades, the BMC is also focusing on safety concerns in tribal settlements located near the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Residents in these areas often face risks from wild animals. Authorities have planned a detailed study to assess the situation and identify measures to enhance safety.
A senior official said that appropriate steps will be taken after the study report is finalised, aiming to ensure both improved living conditions and better protection for residents in these vulnerable communities.
Source: Pudhari
