Maharashtra Launches Cluster Redevelopment Policy for a Slum-Free Mumbai

The Maharashtra government has announced a landmark policy to accelerate Mumbai’s transformation into a slum-free city by removing the need for individual slum dwellers’ consent in group redevelopment projects.

Under the new order, the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) will lead “cluster redevelopment” on contiguous land parcels of at least 50 acres, where 51 percent or more of the area is occupied by slums or informal structures. This ambitious policy aims to streamline the redevelopment process and ensure that slum dwellers are provided with better living conditions.

The scheme covers land owned by private entities, government bodies, semi-government institutions, and even hazardous buildings, chawls, and cessed properties. For the first time, Centrally owned land may also be included with mandatory permissions. This inclusive approach is designed to maximize the impact of the redevelopment efforts across various sectors of the city.

Government-leased lands can be redeveloped with compensation and adherence to the Development Control Rules (DCPR) 2034 norms. Slums in Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) I and II zones may also be rehabilitated in situ or within a five-kilometer radius, as per coastal regulations. This ensures that the environmental impact is minimized while still providing essential housing solutions.

Developers may be appointed through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) or open tendering, with priority given to those owning at least 40 percent of the cluster. A high-level committee chaired by the Housing & Urban Development Department will oversee approvals and ensure that the process is transparent and efficient.

The new policy is expected to significantly accelerate the pace of slum rehabilitation in Mumbai, a city where a large portion of the population lives in informal settlements. By removing the need for individual consent, the government hopes to overcome the common obstacles that have historically slowed down redevelopment projects.

Additionally, the involvement of the SRA and the high-level committee will provide a structured and accountable framework for the implementation of these projects. This approach is designed to ensure that the rights and needs of slum dwellers are protected while also fostering economic growth and urban development.

The cluster redevelopment policy is a significant step towards creating a more equitable and sustainable urban environment in Mumbai. It reflects the government's commitment to addressing the challenges of urbanization and ensuring that all residents have access to safe and dignified living conditions.

Overall, this policy has the potential to transform the landscape of Mumbai, making it a more inclusive and prosperous city for all its residents.