After nearly two decades of uncertainty following the closure of Mumbai’s historic Century Mills, more than 650 families of former mill workers living in deteriorating tenements in Worli are expected to finally receive redevelopment relief.
The redevelopment process has gained momentum after an 18-year legal dispute and a recent Supreme Court ruling in favour of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), clearing the way for the long-pending project to proceed.
The BMC has appointed Peddar Realty as the contractor for the redevelopment of the colony, where 21 ageing residential buildings currently accommodate families of erstwhile Century Mill workers. Most residents continue to live in cramped 180 sq. ft. homes that have faced structural deterioration over the years.
The project is expected to provide rehabilitation housing to all eligible residents while also introducing upgraded civic infrastructure and modern amenities within the colony.
The redevelopment marks a significant step for families that had been living under the constant fear of eviction and prolonged uncertainty since the shutdown of the textile mill. Over the years, residents had repeatedly raised concerns about poor living conditions, ageing structures and delays linked to legal proceedings.
With the legal hurdles now resolved, civic authorities are expected to begin the next stages of planning and execution for the redevelopment work.
The Century Mill colony in Worli is among several old mill land housing clusters in Mumbai awaiting redevelopment under rehabilitation and urban renewal initiatives. The project is expected to improve living conditions for former mill workers and their families while also addressing long-standing infrastructure issues within the settlement.
Officials said the redevelopment would include new residential buildings and essential civic facilities aimed at improving the quality of life for residents who have remained in the ageing colony for decades.
The development is being viewed as an important milestone in Mumbai’s broader efforts to redevelop old housing clusters and rehabilitate long-settled communities living in deteriorating structures.
Source: The Indian Express
