Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered the implementation of a cluster-based approach for the redevelopment of slums in Mumbai’s Malwani area, signalling a renewed push to accelerate long-pending housing projects in one of the city’s most densely populated regions.
According to officials, the Chief Minister has instructed that detailed surveys of slum settlements in Ambujwadi, Dadasaheb Gaikwad Nagar and Rajiv Gandhi Nagar be completed at the earliest. The data collected through these surveys will form the foundation for a comprehensive redevelopment plan under the proposed cluster model, which is designed to address large, contiguous slum pockets in a coordinated manner rather than through fragmented projects.
Directive issued during high-level meeting
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting attended by State Housing Minister Dr Pankaj Bhoyar and Malad West MLA Aslam Shaikh, along with senior representatives from the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority, the Slum Rehabilitation Authority and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. MHADA Vice President Sanjeev Jaiswal made a detailed presentation outlining the scope, challenges and potential of the Malwani redevelopment project.
The Chief Minister emphasised the need for MHADA and the Slum Rehabilitation Authority to complete surveys in areas falling under their respective jurisdictions and submit a consolidated report. Locations entangled in legal disputes will be examined separately, while areas that are clear of hurdles and ready for redevelopment will be taken up on priority. Officials said the cluster model is expected to significantly reduce delays and ensure quicker execution of redevelopment works across Malwani.
566 acres of total land currently occupied by slums
The Malwani redevelopment plan covers a total area of 641 acres, comprising state-owned land, MHADA land, municipal land and private holdings. Of this, nearly 566 acres are currently occupied by slums, while about 75 acres are classified as open land. The area is estimated to house around 14,000 slum dwellings. Once the project is completed, the entire Malwani region is expected to be free of slums, with residents rehabilitated in planned housing complexes supported by improved civic infrastructure.
Separately, Shiv Sena MLA Manisha Kayande lauded Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in the Legislative Council for his contribution to housing reforms in Maharashtra. She highlighted a series of initiatives undertaken under his leadership, including the redevelopment of pagdi and cess buildings, resolution of long-standing funnel zone issues, encouragement of cluster development in Mumbai and steps to make CIDCO housing more affordable.