Nearly a year after the Maharashtra government established the State Self-Redevelopment Authority to facilitate self-redevelopment projects in Mumbai, Thane and Pune, the initiative remains largely inactive due to the absence of statutory powers, staffing and financial support.
Although self-redevelopment has gained momentum among cooperative housing societies, especially in Mumbai, projects have reportedly slowed as the authority is yet to receive the powers required to guide approvals, coordinate with planning agencies and provide financial assistance.
The authority was constituted through a government order issued on September 29, 2025. Legislative Council member Praveen Darekar was appointed its chairman and accorded ministerial status. The authority was allotted the vacant office of the MHADA chairman, but its operations have remained limited because of inadequate manpower and funding.
Darekar has reportedly sought planning powers for the authority, arguing that these are essential for carrying out its mandate. However, the state government is yet to take a decision on the request. The Finance Department has also opposed allocating funds to the State Self-Redevelopment Authority, further delaying its functioning.
The concept of a dedicated Self-Redevelopment Authority was included in Maharashtra’s Housing Policy to support housing societies undertaking redevelopment independently. The authority was expected to guide societies, facilitate approvals, help secure financial assistance and coordinate with planning authorities.
However, officials associated with the authority have expressed concern that the absence of legal powers has prevented it from fulfilling these responsibilities. Several standalone buildings in MHADA colonies have opted for self-redevelopment but continue to face challenges in obtaining finance and navigating approval processes.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced amendments to the Integrated Development Control Regulations (DCPR) to promote self-redevelopment in Thane and Pune. Despite similar provisions already existing for Mumbai, stakeholders say progress remains slow, with housing societies continuing to face procedural hurdles and delays in securing approvals for self-redevelopment projects.
Source: Loksatta
