October 15, 2025: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday instructed the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to complete the first phase of the long-delayed Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar and Kamraj Nagar redevelopment project within two years. The Rs 8,498-crore cluster redevelopment, jointly undertaken by the MMRDA and Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA), aims to transform decades-old slums in Ghatkopar into modern housing complexes.
“Residents should not be paid rent for a third year. Start work immediately and finish the first phase in two years,” Fadnavis said. Recalling previous efforts, he added, “When local MLA Prakash Mehta was housing minister during my previous term, he prepared a scheme. But multiple developers created hurdles, which delayed progress. Hence, the project is now being executed through a joint venture between MMRDA and SRA.”
Taking a dig at the opposition, Fadnavis remarked, “Some people only give speeches. But speeches don’t fill stomachs—development does.” Under Phase I, 4,345 hutments will be rehabilitated. Residents have already received two years’ rent, and 15.63 hectares of land have been handed over to MMRDA for construction. BG Shirke Construction Pvt Ltd has been awarded the contract through competitive bidding.
Deputy CM Ajit Pawar called the project “not just a housing project but a symbol of empowerment and will serve as a model for future slum rehabilitation schemes in Mumbai.” Deputy CM Eknath Shinde praised the scale of the project and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to timely completion. “Opposition parties are spreading rumours that the Laadki Bahin scheme will be discontinued. Let me assure you—it will continue. Ours is a govt of progress, not paralysis,” he said.
Shinde also announced a shop allotment for the family of Jawan Murli Nayak, who was killed in unprovoked shelling in Kashmir on May 9.
Source: The Times of India
