Yogesh Kadam, Minister of State for Home, has instructed officials to prepare a detailed and revised redevelopment proposal for Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail and Byculla Women’s Prison, addressing the requirements of both inmates and prison staff.
During a meeting at the state secretariat, Mantralaya, Kadam highlighted the dilapidated state of the Arthur Road facility, emphasising the urgent need for modern infrastructure. He underscored that the new design must include separate sections for male, female, transgender, and judicial custody inmates, along with dedicated spaces for male and female staff.
The minister insisted the redevelopment take the form of a multi-storey structure, incorporating environmentally friendly features and maximising the use of green energy. Officials were directed to examine global models of high-security prisons and integrate best practices, particularly to enhance security measures.
Kadam also advised that an additional Floor Space Index (FSI) be sought from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), enabling vertical expansion. Following BMC approval, a comprehensive redevelopment plan must be submitted for further processing.
Alongside Arthur Road Jail, Kadam called for a redevelopment blueprint for Byculla Women’s Prison.
Looking ahead, the minister proposed inspecting a 22-acre site in Mankhurd for constructing a new jail facility. He emphasised the need to officially reserve the land for prison infrastructure to prevent future legal or procedural obstacles.
Senior officials attending the meeting included Radhika Rastogi, Principal Secretary (Home); Archana Tyagi, Director General and Managing Director of Maharashtra Police Housing Corporation; Joint Secretary Mr Dhapate; and representatives from the Urban Development and Prisons Departments.
Source: The Free Press Journal
