Approximately 1,700 shanties lining the railway tracks in Bandra West’s Shastri Nagar have been demolished over the past two days to make way for a comprehensive slum rehabilitation project and high-rise residential towers. The area, which had encroached upon the boundary of platform 1 of Bandra station for decades, is set to undergo a transformative change.
Operated by developer Pioneer, the project spans a sprawling 6-acre plot that will accommodate several towers aimed at rehabilitating 1,400 eligible slum families. An additional tower in the sale component is also planned, alongside the construction of an access road linking the west end of Bandra station directly to the Western Express Highway, enhancing connectivity in the area. The rehabilitation efforts, long stalled since 2002, gained momentum following legal challenges and negotiations involving local residents and the authorities. Former corporator Khan highlighted that while 1,400 families are slated for rehabilitation through the project, decisions regarding the remaining 300 families are pending with the slum authority.
The redevelopment project faced hurdles over the years, including changes in government eligibility criteria and disputes over demolition notices issued by the BMC for road widening initiatives. Legal battles, extending up to the Supreme Court, eventually paved the way for a fresh agreement between residents and the developer, aligning with updated regulations under the new slum scheme. During the transition, Pioneer has provided monthly rents for transit accommodations to eligible families, facilitating their relocation from the demolished shanties. The project not only aims to address urban housing challenges but also promises infrastructural enhancements crucial for Bandra’s growing urban landscape. As the redevelopment progresses, attention remains focused on ensuring equitable resettlement for affected families and adherence to urban planning guidelines. The initiative underscores a pivotal step towards modernizing urban habitats while addressing longstanding socio-economic challenges in Mumbai’s vibrant Bandra locality.
