Mumbai has initiated one of the country’s largest redevelopment projects, with a pact signed between the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (Mhada) and a private developer to overhaul Motilal Nagar in Goregaon (West). The initiative is set to rehouse nearly 3,700 families in state-of-the-art apartments, each offering 1,600 sq ft of built-up area.
Spanning 142 acres, the Motilal Nagar redevelopment is being rolled out under the construction-and-development (C&D) model, marking a critical step in Mumbai’s long-stalled push for equitable and sustainable housing renewal. The project will be executed over an estimated seven-year timeline and includes provisions for commercial units of 987 sq ft for non-residential tenants. Officials confirmed that Mhada is set to receive approximately 4 lakh sq m of developed space through the deal, which will be integrated into its affordable housing stock. The effort is positioned not just as a housing upgrade but also as a symbol of transparency and modern urban planning. The project is classified as a ‘special project’ under the state’s housing strategy, further emphasising its significance in the public infrastructure narrative.
However, tensions have surfaced among residents’ groups who argue the agreement has ignored community consultations. Local associations have voiced dissatisfaction over the size of the promised units, demanding a carpet area of at least 2,000 sq ft. Some have signalled potential protests, alleging their appeals to the government have been overlooked. Amid past criticisms of delayed possession and lack of occupancy certificates in Mhada colonies, particularly in Kurla and other eastern suburbs, the success of this redevelopment will be closely watched. The authorities’ commitment to timely execution, environmental compliance, and fair housing standards will likely determine the public perception of this massive urban renewal effort.
Mumbai’s growing housing demands, coupled with ageing infrastructure, underscore the urgency of such projects. But for them to succeed, ensuring community trust and sustainability must remain at the heart of the city’s redevelopment journey.
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