The Maharashtra state government has unveiled a new affordable housing initiative aimed at providing 5,000 dabbawalas with homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) through a public-private partnership. The announcement was formalized with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Friday between the dabbawalas, the state government, and Priyanka Homes Realty.
The housing project will be developed on a 46-acre plot situated on the Thane-Bhiwandi highway, approximately 9 kilometers from the Thane railway station. The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) will oversee the implementation of the scheme.
Each home under this project will cover an area of 500 square feet and is expected to cost up to ₹25 lakh. However, the dabbawalas have requested a reduction in prices, and the state government is currently considering this request.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to address housing needs for lower-income groups and aims to offer affordable living options to those who play a crucial role in Mumbai’s daily life. The project is expected to significantly benefit the dabbawalas by providing them with secure, reasonably priced housing.
This scheme reflects the ongoing commitment of the Maharashtra government to improving living conditions for essential service providers and ensuring equitable access to affordable housing in the region.
