Maharashtra Govt Waives Resident Consent for MHADA Colony Redevelopment

The Maharashtra cabinet has approved a groundbreaking policy for the integrated and cluster redevelopment of Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) colonies. Under this new policy, obtaining individual consent from residents for redevelopment is no longer required. This move is expected to streamline the redevelopment process and bring significant improvements to the living conditions of residents in these colonies.

The state government justifies this waiver by highlighting that the policy offers the highest possible rehabilitation Floor Space Index (FSI). Developers selected through the tender process will still need to secure a consent resolution from the respective housing societies. This ensures that the community remains involved in the decision-making process while accelerating the redevelopment timeline.

The rule applies to MHADA colonies measuring 20 acres or more. Currently, Mumbai and its suburbs have 56 such colonies, which are home to approximately 5,000 cooperative housing societies. Many of these buildings have deteriorated over time and have been declared dilapidated, necessitating urgent redevelopment.

The policy aims to provide a large number of affordable homes for citizens in Mumbai city and its suburbs. It promises to bring modern basic infrastructure and amenities, including well-equipped residential units, elevators, spacious parking areas, parks, community halls, playgrounds, gyms, swimming pools, and CCTV facilities. Additionally, the water supply, sewage disposal, roads, electricity, and other infrastructure will be modern and environmentally friendly, ensuring a higher quality of life for residents.

The project plan will include integrated development of the township, incorporating green areas, schools, healthcare facilities, and commercial spaces. For the redevelopment of 114 projects, MHADA will function as the planning authority, ensuring a coordinated and comprehensive approach to the redevelopment efforts.

Last week, the Maharashtra Housing Department released a Government Resolution (GR) introducing a new approach to slum cluster development in the state. The policy, approved by the Maharashtra government’s cabinet on October 14, was notified on November 13 and will be applicable to cluster development of areas exceeding 50 acres. This new approach aims to address the housing needs of slum dwellers more effectively and efficiently, aligning with the broader goal of urban rejuvenation and improvement.

MHADA’s Mumbai Board, over the years, has constructed 56 colonies for the Middle Income Group (MIG) and Low Income Group (LIG). However, many of these buildings have now deteriorated due to age and have been declared dilapidated. The new policy is a significant step towards revitalizing these areas and providing residents with modern, safe, and comfortable living conditions.