Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Sunil Shinde has called on the Maharashtra government to reassess the construction of very tall Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) buildings in Mumbai, arguing that redevelopment projects should better reflect the needs and living patterns of rehabilitated residents. He also sought improvements in first- and last-mile connectivity to enhance the effectiveness of the city’s expanding Metro network.
Speaking during a discussion on housing and infrastructure in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, Shinde expressed concern over approvals granted for SRA towers rising up to 50 and 60 storeys along Dr Annie Besant Road in Worli. He questioned whether planners had adequately considered whether residents relocating from slums would be comfortable living in such high-rise buildings.
Referring to operational issues in existing rehabilitation projects, Shinde said residents of several 42-storey SRA buildings frequently experience lift-related problems, affecting their daily lives.
“The government should consider restricting the height of SRA buildings. Otherwise, are we encouraging residents to rent out or sell their homes?” he asked, adding that while developers benefit commercially from such projects, the interests of rehabilitation beneficiaries should remain the government’s primary concern.
Shinde also urged the state to prepare a comprehensive road master plan alongside the ongoing expansion of Mumbai’s Metro network. According to him, inadequate first- and last-mile connectivity continues to discourage commuters from using Metro services despite the city’s investment in rapid transit infrastructure.
Illustrating the issue, he said travelling by road from Worli to Vidhan Bhavan takes around 20 minutes, whereas reaching the nearest Metro station itself can take nearly 45 minutes, reducing the convenience of the system.
The legislator also raised concerns over the response to recent MHADA housing lotteries. He said many applicants withdraw after learning the prices of the allotted homes, as they consider them unaffordable. Shinde urged the authorities to revisit pricing strategies to improve the affordability and attractiveness of government housing schemes and encourage greater public participation.
Source: The Times of India
