August 25, 2025: Of the 64 Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) schemes planned on land owned by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), only 29 are currently set to progress. The projects fall under DCPR-2034 Regulation 33(10), which empowers the civic body to act as a special planning authority for redevelopment of slums situated on its plots.
In May this year, the BMC had invited Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from developers for comprehensive redevelopment — from slum surveys and planning to constructing both rehabilitation and saleable units. However, several obstacles have slowed the initiative. Sixteen schemes are stalled due to ongoing litigation, while 18 schemes drew no interest from developers.
At present, the BMC is preparing to appoint developers for 21 schemes, pending approval from municipal commissioner Bhushan Gagrani. Eight schemes that received bids from only one developer will see the EOI process reopened to ensure competitiveness.
The civic body expects to generate significant revenue through these projects, with developers required to pay a 25% land premium, alongside other applicable charges. Speaking earlier, Gagrani said: “These schemes will provide us with much-needed revenue.
While SRA projects are usually managed by the Authority, delays and defaults prompted the government to transfer some to agencies like the MMRDA, MSRDC, and BMC. As the planning authority, we will benefit from the premiums.”
The schemes span multiple areas of Mumbai including Borivali (Shimpoli), Goregaon East, Malad East, Lower Parel, Dindoshi, Wadala, Govandi and Ghatkopar. Unlike conventional SRA projects, these do not require slum dwellers’ consent since the land belongs to the BMC, allowing work to be expedited.
A civic official confirmed that disputes involving 16 schemes are before the Bombay High Court and the Apex Grievance Redressal Committee (AGRC), which includes members from MMRDA, MHADA and the BMC. Until these cases are resolved, progress will remain slow.
Source: Hindustan Times
