To address an inventory of 14,047 unsold flats since 2017, MHADA's Konkan Board has launched a promotional campaign, setting up 29 stalls at high-footfall locations. The initiative runs until December 11, offering affordable flats under EWS, LIG, and MIG categories on a first-come, first-served basis. Key projects in areas like Virar-Bolinj and Gotheghar-Thane, near upcoming infrastructure like Navi Mumbai International Airport, are priced significantly lower than private developments. With over 11,814 applications for the ongoing lottery of 2,264 homes, MHADA aims to highlight affordability, added amenities, and strategic locations to boost sales.
Struggling with an inventory of 14,047 unsold flats since 2017, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) Konkan Board has initiated a new promotional campaign to increase awareness about its housing projects. Revati Gaikar, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MHADA's Konkan Board, stated that the authority has set up 29 stalls at high-footfall locations, including railway stations, municipal offices, and government premises. The campaign, which started earlier this week and will run until December 11, aims to provide detailed project information and help applicants with the registration and application processes.
Trained personnel, including junior engineers, have been deployed to guide prospective buyers through the home-buying procedure. The unsold flats are available under a first-come, first-served basis for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Low-Income Groups (LIG), and Middle-Income Groups (MIG). These homes are located in areas such as Virar-Bolinj, Khoni-Kalyan, Shirdhon-Kalyan, Gotheghar-Thane, and Bhandarli-Thane, with many falling under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY-Urban) scheme.
When questioned about the lack of sales, officials pointed to water scarcity in some regions as a significant hindrance for potential buyers. However, Gaikar emphasised that these issues have been addressed, with added amenities and services making the flats more appealing. Gaikar also underscored the strategic locations of the housing projects. For example, the Gotheghar-Thane flats are situated just 20 km from the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, according to officials.
Gaikar highlighted that, in comparison to private housing developments in the same areas, MHADA flats were priced much more affordably. She mentioned that flats in private projects were being sold at a significantly higher price. She remarked that they aimed to create awareness about how their homes were not only affordable but also situated in areas with promising infrastructure developments.
The deadline for the ongoing MHADA Konkan Board lottery for 2,264 houses is expected to be extended, although the exact number of additional days is yet to be decided. An official announcement regarding the extension will be made soon, according to Revati Gaikar. The current deadline for the lottery is December 10. Gaikar also confirmed that 11,814 applications have been received, with 4,076 applicants having paid the earnest money deposit, confirming their participation in the lottery process.
In conclusion, MHADA's new initiative aims to make affordable housing more accessible and attract buyers to unsold flats. With competitive pricing and added amenities, these flats offer an affordable alternative to private projects in areas poised for infrastructure growth.