The Government of Maharashtra has unveiled a major initiative to transform Mumbai into a slum-free city, with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announcing the Hinduhrudaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Urban Public Welfare Campaign.
The programme aims to accelerate slum redevelopment while deploying advanced technology through the NETRAM (Network for Encroachment Tracking and Reporting for Mumbai) system to curb fresh illegal constructions. Launched during the birth centenary year of Balasaheb Thackeray, the initiative is positioned as a tribute to his vision for the city.
“We are committed to realising Balasaheb Thackeray’s dream of a slum-free Mumbai through this mission,” he said.
The campaign will focus on large slum clusters spanning over 50 acres, where at least 51% of the land is occupied by informal settlements. The Slum Rehabilitation Authority will spearhead cluster redevelopment projects across private, government, and semi-government land parcels.
Tech-Driven Redevelopment Push
Authorities will undertake detailed mapping and biometric verification of slum residents to ensure accurate identification and eligibility. To streamline execution, agreements will be signed with key agencies such as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, and MAHAPREIT.
In a major relief measure, the government has increased the minimum size of rehabilitation homes. Eligible residents will now receive 300 sq ft flats, while existing projects will be upgraded to meet the revised standards.
NETRAM to Monitor Encroachments
To prevent the emergence of new slums, the NETRAM system will leverage satellite imagery, GIS mapping, and digital monitoring tools. High-resolution satellite images will be analysed every four months to detect new encroachments, with data shared via the BISAG-N portal for swift action, including demolition where necessary.
Dedicated implementation cells have been set up by the SRA, with the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority, BMC, and district collector offices instructed to establish similar units.
With redevelopment shifting towards high-rise housing, the government has also revised maintenance deposit norms to ensure long-term sustainability, reinforcing its push for structured and future-ready urban development.
Source: Mid-day
