Tensions have escalated in Worli Koliwada as residents protest against notices issued by the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) aimed at terminating the developer managing large-scale redevelopment projects across nearly six acres of prime land. The move has raised concerns about delays in long-pending housing initiatives and uncertainty for thousands of families.
The agitation primarily involves two key societies: Chaitanya Sai Janata Colony, comprising approximately 2,054 tenements, and Sagar Darshan Co-operative Housing Society, with 265 tenements. While the Chaitanya Sai project has remained in limbo for nearly three decades, Sagar Darshan’s redevelopment commenced a few years ago. Residents have argued that construction is ongoing, with all approvals secured as of October 2024, and that the sudden termination notice threatens to derail progress. The SRA has scheduled a hearing under Section 13(2) of the Maharashtra Slum Areas (Improvement, Clearance and Redevelopment) Act, 1971. This provision allows intervention when redevelopment projects fail to meet stipulated timelines or breach approved plans, providing an opportunity for involved parties to present their case before any final decision is enacted. Residents contend that the authority’s action is premature, given that key land ownership disputes are still under adjudication at the Bombay High Court. “Removing the developer at this stage could jeopardise the entire redevelopment process, leaving thousands of families in limbo,” said a resident representative. Community members have also warned that further escalation could trigger larger agitations or political engagement if the notices are not reconsidered.
The redevelopment projects, which include both housing and infrastructure improvements, are viewed as pivotal for Worli Koliwada’s transformation into a more sustainable and inclusive urban precinct. Analysts note that delays in slum redevelopment can exacerbate social inequities and slow the city’s efforts to integrate climate-resilient and gender-inclusive planning into high-density areas. From the SRA’s perspective, officials assert that permissions for further construction are on hold until land title disputes are resolved in court. “The notice and subsequent hearing aim to accelerate stalled ground-level work, which has been progressing slowly,” an SRA official explained. The authority maintains that these measures are procedural and intended to maintain accountability in redevelopment projects. Urban planning experts highlight that balancing timely execution with legal compliance remains a critical challenge in Mumbai’s slum redevelopment landscape.
They emphasise that inclusive consultation with residents, transparent timelines, and adherence to sustainable development principles are essential to avoid prolonged uncertainty and community disruption. As the hearing approaches, stakeholders including developers, residents, and authorities face the complex task of advancing urban renewal while ensuring that citizen
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