The highly publicized ‘My Preferred Home’ housing scheme by CIDCO has been met with a tepid response, with only 55,000 eligible applications received for 26,000 homes offered in Navi Mumbai’s prominent localities. The application period, which concluded on January 10, has left each house with just over two applicants, significantly improving the chances of securing a home in the upcoming lottery.
Homes under this scheme have been located in areas such as Taloja, Kharghar, Panvel, and Kalamboli. It was reported that 1,36,000 applications were initially submitted; however, only 55,000 individuals paid the registration fee required to qualify for the final draw. According to officials, the high drop-out rate was attributed to steep property prices and the late announcement of project-specific costs. Prices were disclosed just a day before the deadline, leaving prospective buyers with limited time to make informed decisions.
The flats under the scheme have been priced between Rs 25 lakh and Rs 48 lakh for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category, and between Rs 34 lakh and Rs 97 lakh for the Lower Income Group (LIG) category. Concerns have been raised by critics, who noted that the pricing was comparable to rates offered by private developers in Navi Mumbai. It was highlighted that private options often include better amenities and are situated in more developed areas, making CIDCO homes less appealing. Particular disinterest has been observed in Taloja, where 10,518 units are located, due to issues such as pollution and water scarcity. Additional costs, including Rs 5 lakh for registration and stamp duty on homes priced above Rs 74 lakh, have also been cited as deterrents.
The low turnout has been acknowledged by CIDCO’s chairperson and Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Shirsat. It was suggested that administrative inefficiencies and insufficient outreach may have contributed to the lackluster response. However, the pricing has been defended, with claims that higher rates reflect demand in premium locations while affordable options starting at Rs 25 lakh have been made available. CIDCO has emphasized its commitment to providing transparent and affordable housing, with assurances that no hidden costs are included. The application deadline, which had already been extended once, has not been further prolonged. Despite the challenges, CIDCO remains firm in its goal to deliver housing options for the common man while addressing feedback for future projects.
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