Top Landlords Owning Over 10% of Mumbai's Land
Mumbai, known for its premium real estate, is home to some of the largest landowners in the country. A survey by the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) reveals that these top landlords own around 20% of the total land in the city. Here's a closer look at
MumbaiReal EstateLandownersGodrejSraReal EstateOct 16, 2024
1. Godrej Properties
The Godrej family tops the list with ownership of over 3,400 acres of land, primarily located in Vikhroli. This area is situated in the central suburbs of Mumbai and is known for its strategic location near the Eastern Express Highway (EEH). The land bank includes several reservations, such as forest and mangrove areas, which impose limitations on development. Despite these constraints, the value of the land is estimated to be around ₹30,000 crore, and it could reach up to ₹50,000 crore without the limitations.
2. The FE Dinshaw Trust
The FE Dinshaw Trust ranks second with around 683 acres of land, primarily in Malad and surrounding areas. F.E. Dinshaw, a Parsi solicitor and financier, left behind a substantial land bank for his family. Over the years, parts of this land have been either acquired by the government or monetized.
3. Pratapsingh Vallabhdas Surji’s Family
The third-largest landowner is the Pratapsingh Vallabhdas Surji family, which owns approximately 647 acres of land in Bhandup and its surroundings. This area is known for its residential and commercial developments.
4. Jeejeebhoy Ardeshir Trust
The Jeejeebhoy Ardeshir Trust is the fourth-largest landowner, holding 508 acres of land in Chembur. This trust has a rich history and has been involved in various philanthropic activities over the years.
5. The AH Wadia Trust
The AH Wadia Trust owns 361 acres of land in Kurla. Ardeshir Hormusji Wadia, a prominent figure in Mumbai's history, obtained the lease for Kurla in the early 19th century. The land has since been subject to various encroachments and developments.
6. Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Group
The Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Group, through its trust, owns 269 acres of land across different parts of Mumbai. Sir Byramjee Jeejeebhoy, a 19th-century Parsi philanthropist, received seven villages totaling 12,000 acres from the East India Company in 1830. One of these areas is Bandra Land’s End, where the iconic Taj Hotel now stands.
Historical Perspective
It's worth noting that the Parsi community has a significant presence in Mumbai's land ownership. Historically, India had village landlords who collected taxes on agricultural produce on behalf of the rulers. When the British took over Mumbai, this system continued, and many wealthy individuals, including Marathi Hindus and Konkani Muslims, were given land. However, the Parsi community, which made its fortune in the opium and cotton trade, secured a lion’s share of the land on Salsette Island.
Government Authorities
In addition to private entities, several government agencies also own large land banks in Mumbai. These include the Mumbai Port Trust, National Textiles Corporation, Maharashtra government, Central government, and both the Central and Western Railways.
Conclusion
Mumbai's land ownership is a complex matrix involving both private and government entities. Understanding the dynamics of these landowners can provide valuable insights into the city's real estate market and its historical development.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much land does the Godrej family own in Mumbai?
The Godrej family owns over 3,400 acres of land, primarily located in Vikhroli in the central suburbs of Mumbai.
What is the total habitable land area in Mumbai?
Mumbai's total habitable land area is around 34,000 acres.
Who is the second-largest landowner in Mumbai according to the SRA survey?
The FE Dinshaw Trust is the second-largest landowner, owning around 683 acres of land, primarily in Malad and surrounding areas.
What are some historical factors that influenced land ownership in Mumbai?
Historically, India had village landlords who collected taxes on agricultural produce. When the British took over Mumbai, this system continued, and many wealthy individuals, including the Parsi community, were given significant land holdings.
Which government agencies own significant land in Mumbai?
Government agencies like the Mumbai Port Trust, National Textiles Corporation, Maharashtra government, Central government, and both the Central and Western Railways own significant land in Mumbai.
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