Fresh controversy has emerged around the proposed redevelopment of Motilal Nagar in Goregaon West, with residents raising allegations of procedural irregularities and demanding cancellation of the project approval letter issued for the large-scale redevelopment scheme being undertaken through MHADA.
The redevelopment project for Motilal Nagar 1, 2, and 3 is being executed under a build-and-develop model, with the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) appointing the Adani Group as the construction and development agency. The project is being implemented through Estate View Developers Private Limited, a company incorporated in 2023.
Residents and members of the Motilal Nagar Development Committee have questioned the selection of the developer, alleging that the company lacks prior redevelopment experience despite handling a large housing rehabilitation project. Concerns have also been raised regarding the company’s financial capability and the appointment of the project architect.
According to residents, MHADA had earlier assured occupants that no major decisions would be taken without consulting them. However, they allege that the Intimation of Approval (IOA) was issued on March 25, before presentation of the redevelopment plan at Ganesh Maidan on April 17.
The redevelopment authority had stated that construction activity would initially begin on vacant land parcels. Residents claim that several grounds, including Annabhau Sathe Ground, have already been handed over to the developer, where fencing work has nearly been completed. They further alleged that no official approval related to the fencing work is visible on the MHADA website.
The Motilal Nagar Development Committee has also objected to proposed commercial structures planned on portions of the open land. The committee alleged that the approval plan could impact Ambedkar Ground and adjoining areas.
In a letter submitted to MHADA, residents demanded an immediate halt to all ongoing work, alleging that activities were being carried out “arbitrarily and with serious irregularities” without adequately consulting affected occupants. They also sought cancellation of the approval letter.
Another issue raised by the committee relates to the appointment of Nikhil Dixit as architect and licensed surveyor for the project. Residents alleged that he is not a registered architect and referred to previous complaints filed before the Council of Architecture regarding the use of the title “architect.”
Following the complaints, MHADA has reportedly sought clarification from both the developer and the architect.
The Motilal Nagar redevelopment project spans nearly 142 acres. Under the scheme, MHADA will receive constructed housing across approximately 3.97 lakh square metres, while nearly 3,700 slum dwellers are expected to be rehabilitated over approximately 5.84 lakh square metres. Residents are proposed to receive flats measuring around 1,600 square feet under the redevelopment plan.
Source: Pudhari
