Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who also oversees the housing department, conducted a detailed review of Maharashtra’s housing policies and projects on Friday, during which several transformative initiatives were announced. A major highlight of the meeting was the decision to construct one lakh homes for mill workers under a government-led initiative, which is expected to significantly address the housing demands of this community.
During the review, a directive was issued to officials to draft a new housing policy within a month. The focus was placed on ensuring that the policy prioritizes affordability, sustainability, and environmental friendliness. It was emphasized that the schemes of MHADA and the housing department should be made more accessible to citizens. Stalled redevelopment projects in Mumbai were identified as a key concern, with instructions given to expedite their progress.
A cluster development scheme was proposed as part of the government’s efforts to enhance urban redevelopment. Through this scheme, thousands of homes are expected to become available in Mumbai, further contributing to the state’s housing goals. Ongoing slum redevelopment projects, including those in Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar and Kamraj Nagar, were also reviewed. These projects, being implemented by MMRDA and the Slum Rehabilitation Authority, are part of the broader plan to make Mumbai slum-free.
The introduction of a pioneering housing policy for senior citizens was announced, marking Maharashtra as the first state to take such an initiative. This policy will include accommodations for students, working women, laborers, and rental housing, along with provisions for redevelopment projects. The use of innovative construction technologies to create eco-friendly housing solutions was strongly advocated. The tendering process for the construction of one lakh homes for mill workers was reported to have been completed. It was suggested that an evaluation should be conducted to determine whether homes could be allocated in their native villages to mill workers who have relocated. A meeting with mill workers’ unions was also directed to ensure their concerns are addressed.
To enhance transparency in housing initiatives, the development of a centralized, web-based information portal was proposed. The creation of transit camps for residents of unsafe buildings was also recommended, ensuring safety during redevelopment or emergencies. Several key redevelopment projects were reviewed during the meeting, including the BDD Chawl, Patra Chawl, and Motilal Nagar redevelopments, along with the Kamathipura area redevelopment and the Gharkul scheme for mill workers. These projects are expected to address long-pending housing issues and cater to the growing needs of urban and semi-urban populations.
The initiatives announced reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable housing solutions for Maharashtra’s diverse communities.
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