Advertisement
When should a housing society in Mumbai start considering re...
From GST on JDAs to SEBI’s REIT reclassification and the S...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
In Mulund East, Mumbai, the 60-acre vacant land from a former octroi naka and garbage dump has inspired local residents of Hari Om Nagar to advocate for new infrastructure projects. The community, led by the Hari Om Nagar Apex Body Federation (HONAFE), is pushing for an AIIMS hospital, a bus terminus, and a cultural and sports center. With over 2,000 signatures gathered, they aim to enhance local services, improve healthcare access, and ease transportation challenges. Despite existing government allocations, the community plans to present their proposals to authorities, hoping to bring meaningful development for 80,000 to 100,000 residents.
In Mulund East, Mumbai, a 60-acre expanse of vacant land-comprising 18 acres from a now-closed octroi naka and 42 acres once used as a garbage dump-has sparked the aspirations of the local Hari Om Nagar community, which consists of approximately 10,000 residents. The community has rallied together, gathering over 2,000 signatures to support the establishment of an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) hospital, an interstate and intercity bus terminus, and a cultural and sports centre. Advertisement
Sahebrao Survade, chairman of the Hari Om Nagar Apex Body Federation (HONAFE), which is spearheading the initiative, shared that the land once occupied by the octroi naka recently hosted a garba session, indicating a growing interest in revitalising the area. He noted that remediation and leveling efforts are underway on the former garbage dump, and he envisions transforming the land into a hub of beneficial services for future generations. Survade emphasised the urgent need for an AIIMS hospital, citing the distance to the nearest government hospital, Rajawadi Hospital in Ghatkopar, which is an hour away. He also highlighted the potential for a medical college to provide educational opportunities for aspiring medical professionals.
The residents are equally passionate about establishing a bus terminus, as they have been without BEST bus services for the past five years. Madhusudan Gutti, a HONAFE member involved in the campaign, pointed out that residents currently have to walk to the highway for public transport, with shared auto-rickshaws only servicing Thane. Another HONAFE member, who chose to remain anonymous, underscored the necessity of interstate buses to benefit students and office workers commuting from Thane. Gutti proposed that a well-designed bus terminus, featuring an upper level for restaurants and commercial establishments, would not only be financially viable but also convenient for both residents and visitors from surrounding areas.
Interestingly, the idea of an interstate bus terminus on this land is not new. In 2017, Bharat Soni from the Hillside Residents Welfare Association had previously urged the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to consider similar improvements, a topic that was even discussed in an assembly session by former MP Manoj Kotak.
In addition to the bus terminus, HONAFE advocates for a cultural centre and sports complex to foster artistic engagement and various sports activities. Over the years, there have been numerous proposals concerning the Mulund dumping ground, including plans for a commercial hub akin to BKC, relocating the Mahalaxmi Racecourse, and rehabilitating residents from Dharavi. Survade pointed out that while the land will require another year for complete remediation, many proposed plans have not come to fruition, and the octroi naka has remained largely unused since 2017.
As part of their campaign, residents of Hari Om Nagar aim to collect 10,000 signatures, reaching out to nearby communities such as Kopri, Naupada, and Damoji Patil Wadi. HONAFE plans to present their demands to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the BMC, and other local elected officials. Gutti noted that the proposed services would benefit between 80,000 to 100,000 people, with signatures being collected both online and in person.
When approached for comment, a BMC official from the assessment department expressed skepticism regarding the residents' optimism. The official indicated that portions of the octroi naka land have already been designated for various projects, including water supply and solid waste management, leaving only five acres available. While citizens can petition the state government and BMC, the feasibility of their proposals will need to be evaluated in due course.
In summary, the campaign initiated by the residents of Hari Om Nagar exemplifies their commitment to enhancing local infrastructure and services. Despite facing challenges from existing governmental allocations, their collective efforts hold the potential to drive significant developments that could improve the quality of life for thousands. By engaging with local authorities, they may pave the way for a brighter future for their community.
In conclusion, the residents' campaign for the vacant land reflects their determination to improve local infrastructure and services. While they face challenges from existing governmental allocations, their collective efforts could lead to meaningful developments that enhance the quality of life for thousands. Engaging with local authorities may pave the way for future progress.
5th Jun, 2025
25th May, 2023
11th May, 2023
27th Apr, 2023
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
