Eknath Shinde has outlined the Maharashtra government’s plan to make Mumbai slum-free by 2030 through cluster redevelopment projects, rehabilitation housing and integrated urban infrastructure development.
Speaking at the Maharashtra Infrastructure Conclave in Mumbai, Shinde said the state aims to construct nearly 15 lakh rehabilitation homes in the coming years. He stated that 19 cluster redevelopment zones have already been identified across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region to transform densely populated settlements into planned residential neighbourhoods with improved roads, schools, playgrounds, gardens and civic amenities.
Shinde said the government intends to improve living conditions for residents currently residing near nullahs and areas lacking proper sanitation infrastructure. He added that every eligible citizen should have access to dignified and organised housing facilities.
The redevelopment programme is being implemented through coordination among multiple state agencies, including the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation, City and Industrial Development Corporation, Slum Rehabilitation Authority and Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority.
According to Shinde, the cluster redevelopment model is focused not only on replacing old and unsafe structures but also on improving infrastructure and overall quality of life in congested urban areas.
Officials at the conclave stated that redevelopment-linked projects, including promenade and racecourse developments, are expected to create nearly 300 hectares of additional open spaces across Mumbai. Shinde also referred to the redevelopment of the BDD chawls as an example of planned urban renewal for ageing housing colonies.
Meanwhile, Mahendra Kalyankar said the Slum Rehabilitation Authority plans to deliver around seven lakh rehabilitation homes by 2030, significantly higher than the nearly 2.9 lakh units developed since the authority’s establishment.
Kalyankar added that approximately 1.5 lakh rehabilitation homes are proposed in Dharavi, where sanitation and housing challenges remain severe.
Source: Lokmat Times
