Mumbai SRA to Map All Slum Structures by December 2025 with Advanced Tech

NEW DELHI: The Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) of Mumbai has announced a groundbreaking initiative to map every slum structure in the city by the end of December 2025. This ambitious project aims to accelerate slum rehabilitation schemes through the integration of advanced digital technologies, as revealed by Mahendra Kalyankar, CEO of the authority.

SRA has introduced a range of digital innovations to streamline the process and ensure greater transparency. These include a STQC-certified web portal available in 25 languages, integrated online modules with role-specific access, blockchain-based file approvals, and chatbot-enabled consumer interfaces. These upgrades are designed to enable faster project approvals and improved accountability in scheme execution.

Sukhraj Nahar, president of CREDAI MCHI, expressed his enthusiasm for the integration of technology and the SRA's positive, development-oriented mindset. He stated that this approach has changed his perspective and encouraged his company to consider undertaking slum rehabilitation projects.

Kalyankar, in a joint meeting with real estate bodies CREDAI MCHI, NAREDCO, BDA, and PEATA, unveiled a suite of digital tools integrated into the SRA’s approval process:

Integrated online modules: A system with various accessible layers for officers, architects, and the general public, designed for greater transparency and faster approvals.

Blockchain use: Utilized to secure and store file approvals, fostering accountability.

Automated data collation: New software will collate slum dweller data (Aadhaar, PAN, Electoral Roll, Electricity Bills), which is expected to reduce the time taken to generate crucial Annexure-2s from 6-9 months to virtually instantaneously.

Aadhaar linking: Slum dwellers' Aadhaar will be linked to their permanent alternate accommodation to ensure that only genuine beneficiaries receive flats and to prevent multiple claims.

Encroachment tracking cell: A dedicated cell is now using satellite data to track new encroachments over a period of years, flagging fresh construction for immediate action and demolition by the concerned land-owning authority.

Rushi Mehta, secretary of CREDAI MCHI, highlighted the significance of the new system, stating, 'The authority would be able to generate annexure-2s in a click of a button, which until now would take 6-9 months.'

Rajan Bandelkar, vice chairman of NAREDCO, added, 'The introduction of advanced digital systems and transparent processes will not only accelerate project approvals but also restore the confidence of developers in slum rehabilitation schemes.'

Vikram Mehta, president of BDA, praised the formation of the dedicated encroachment tracking cell, noting, 'Using satellite data over a spectrum of years to show new encroachment every year and flag new construction for immediate action is a step in the right direction.'

These technological advancements are expected to revolutionize the slum rehabilitation process in Mumbai, making it more efficient, transparent, and accountable. The SRA's commitment to leveraging technology to improve the lives of slum dwellers is a significant step forward in urban development and social welfare.