The Maharashtra government has approved the implementation framework for a large-scale Mumbai Police Housing Township Project, aimed at addressing the long-standing housing shortage faced by police personnel serving in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
The decision was approved by the state cabinet in its meeting held on January 17, 2026, and formalised through a Government Resolution (GR) issued subsequently. The resolution grants in-principle approval for the project and outlines the execution, funding and monitoring structure, while the final project cost and phasing will be determined after a detailed techno-economic feasibility study.
Severe Housing Shortage for Mumbai Police
According to the GR, Mumbai Police has a sanctioned manpower strength of over 51,000 personnel, but currently has access to only around 19,700 service residences. Many of the existing quarters are old, undersized and located in dilapidated structures built several decades ago.
As a result, a large section of police personnel commute daily from distant locations such as Virar, Palghar, Kalyan, Kasara and Panvel, adversely affecting response time, operational efficiency and quality of life.
The government noted that Mumbai’s role as India’s financial capital, along with its exposure to security threats, large public events, natural disasters and social complexities, makes adequate housing near duty locations a critical operational requirement for the police force.
Project Scope and Housing Norms
The proposed housing township project envisages the construction of tens of thousands of service housing units for Mumbai Police personnel across various ranks.
As per norms referenced in the GR:
- Constables to sub-inspectors will be eligible for housing units with a carpet area of around 45 sq m
- Officers will be allotted larger units based on rank and entitlement, in line with prevailing government housing norms
Funding Approach Outlined, Cost Yet to Be Finalised
The GR outlines a broad funding framework for the project, which includes:
- A combination of state government support
- Institutional borrowing, backed by government guarantee
- Land monetisation and commercial development of select parcels, strictly for the purpose of servicing debt and project-related financial obligations
However, the resolution clearly states that the final financial outlay, phasing and viability will be decided only after preparation of a Detailed Techno-Economic Feasibility Report.
MSIDC Appointed as Implementing Agency
The Maharashtra State Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (MSIDC) has been appointed as the nodal implementing agency for the project.
MSIDC has been tasked with:
- Preparing the Detailed Techno-Economic Feasibility Report
- Appointing architects, consultants and transaction advisors
- Managing tendering and procurement processes
- Submitting the feasibility report to the Home Department within the stipulated timeframe
Ownership of project land parcels will be transferred to the Commissioner of Police, Greater Mumbai, with the land use remaining strictly aligned to police housing and approved allied purposes.
Oversight and Compliance
The project will be monitored by a high-level committee constituted under the Home Department. The GR mandates compliance with:
- Development Control and Promotion Regulations (DCPR) 2034
- Statutory approvals and transparent tendering norms
- Regular reporting, audits and inter-departmental coordination
The government resolution has been uploaded on the official Maharashtra government website and has been digitally authenticated in the name of the Governor of Maharashtra.
Also Read: Half of Mumbai’s Police Force Lives Outside the City as Housing Gap Worsens
