The Maharashtra government has approved a joint venture between the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to redevelop Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar slum in Ghatkopar. This 33.15 hectare project will be the first of its kind, combining efforts of two government agencies. SRA will handle biometric surveys, land acquisition, and permissions, while MMRDA will manage architects, contractors, and construction. The INR 4,000 crore project aims to rehabilitate 17,500 slum dwellers within three years. The initiative marks a strategic move to expedite slum redevelopment in Mumbai, addressing long standing delays by private developers.
For the first time, a slum redevelopment project in Mumbai will be executed through a joint venture by two government agencies: the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). The Maharashtra government has approved the redevelopment of Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar in Ghatkopar, spanning 33.15 hectares.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is expected to distribute the first segment of rent cheques to Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar slum dwellers later this month, ahead of the October assembly elections. This predominantly Dalit settlement has faced redevelopment delays for 25 years under Neelam Developers, whose approval was ultimately canceled by the SRA. The Supreme Court supported this cancellation, paving the way for the new joint venture approach.
The state government has allocated INR 500 crore from ShivShahi Punarvasan Prakalp Ltd funds for rent payments. This project is part of a broader strategy involving multiple government agencies, including BMC, MIDC, MHADA, and CIDCO, to expedite stalled redevelopment projects essential for various infrastructure developments.
The SRA's responsibilities include conducting biometric surveys of the slums, declaring slum areas under Section 3(c), acquiring private land, granting necessary permissions (such as letters of intent and construction approvals), and handling any non-cooperative slum dwellers. Meanwhile, MMRDA will finalize architects and contractors, prepare feasibility and detailed planning reports, provide transit camps or rent for affected individuals, and undertake the actual construction work. Additionally, MMRDA will create a project report for SRA's approval.
The proposal for sharing SRA's responsibilities with other government agencies was previously discussed by the state government. In September 2023, a decision was made to allow SRA to collaborate with other government bodies for redevelopment projects. This joint venture approach aims to address the longstanding issue of making Mumbai slum-free, which has seen limited success despite government focus.
MMRDA, after successfully completing the Kisan Nagar cluster redevelopment in Thane, was chosen for this project. The joint venture was officially approved in September, and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in March. Recently, the government approved the transfer of 14 acres of its land for the project at the Ready Reckoner rate, with MMRDA requesting a nominal rate to ensure project viability.
The Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar project aims to redevelop the slum colony, home to 17,500 residents, at an estimated cost of INR 4,000 crore. The project completion is expected within three years after acquiring vacant land. MMRDA will manage demolitions, land clearance, architect appointments, project planning, tenders, developer appointments, and funding. SRA will conduct surveys, issue Annexure II, manage rent payments, and rehabilitate slum dwellers, providing two years' advance rent and post-dated cheques for the third year.
The Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar redevelopment project exemplifies a strategic collaboration between the SRA and MMRDA to effectively address Mumbai's slum challenges. With a budget of INR 4,000 crore and a commitment to improving living conditions for 17,500 residents, this initiative represents a significant step toward a slum-free city. By leveraging the strengths of multiple government agencies, the project aims for completion within three years, setting a precedent for future urban redevelopment efforts.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
