The decision was announced through a Government Resolution (GR) issued by the Housing Department on July 1, 2026 (Government Resolution No. धापुप्र-2026/प्र.क्र.71/झोपसु). The Special Cell has been created following directions issued by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis during a review meeting held on June 8, 2026, where he instructed officials to establish a dedicated mechanism for expediting pending permissions related to the project.

The latest move is expected to remove administrative bottlenecks and ensure that the ambitious redevelopment is completed within the stipulated timeline.

Why has the Special Cell been created?

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project requires approvals from multiple government departments and agencies, including land administration, urban planning, finance, environment, infrastructure and local civic authorities.

Obtaining these clearances through conventional processes often leads to delays. To address this, the Maharashtra government has now established a dedicated inter-departmental committee that will coordinate and expedite all pending approvals.

According to the Government Resolution, the objective is to:

• Ensure faster processing of statutory approvals.
• Resolve inter-departmental issues through coordinated decision-making.
• Monitor pending permissions across government departments.
• Enable timely implementation of the redevelopment project.
• Help complete the project within the prescribed timeline.

High-Level Committee to Oversee Approvals

The newly formed Special Cell will be chaired by the Additional Chief Secretary, Housing Department and will include senior officials from key government departments and agencies.

The members include:

• Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue Department
• Additional Chief Secretary, Urban Development Department
• Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary, Finance Department
• Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary, Industries Department
• Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary, Environment Department
• Vice Chairman & CEO, MHADA
• Divisional Commissioner, Konkan Division
• Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA
• Municipal Commissioner, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)
• Managing Director, Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (MMRCL)
• Collector, Mumbai City
• Collector, Mumbai Suburban
• CEO and Special Officer, Dharavi Redevelopment Project (Member Secretary)

Whenever project-specific approvals are pending, the concerned department will participate in Special Cell meetings to take immediate decisions. Officials from other departments may also be invited whenever required.

What is the Dharavi Redevelopment Project?

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project is one of the world’s largest and most complex urban renewal programmes.

Spread over approximately 620 acres (around 251 hectares) in the heart of Mumbai, Dharavi has evolved over decades into a densely populated settlement comprising residential clusters, commercial establishments and thousands of small-scale manufacturing units.

The area is strategically located between Mumbai’s major business districts and transport corridors, making it one of the city’s most valuable land parcels.

The project aims to transform Dharavi into a modern mixed-use township while rehabilitating eligible residents and formalising infrastructure.

Who won the bid to redevelop Dharavi?

The redevelopment project is being implemented by Navbharat Mega Developers Pvt. Ltd. (NMDPL), a special purpose vehicle formed after the successful bid by the Adani Group in November 2022.

The Government of Maharashtra selected the Adani Group as the successful bidder after a competitive bidding process. The Special Purpose Vehicle is jointly owned by the Government of Maharashtra and the Adani Group, with the private developer holding the majority stake while the state retains equity participation.

The project is being executed under the supervision of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project/Slum Rehabilitation Authority (DRP/SRA).

How many people will be affected?

The redevelopment is expected to directly impact around 1 million (10 lakh) residents, making it one of the largest rehabilitation exercises undertaken anywhere in the world.

Apart from residents, the project also affects:

• More than 100,000 commercial establishments and small businesses, according to official project estimates and surveys.
• Thousands of micro, small and home-based manufacturing units.
• Informal industries involved in leather goods, garments, pottery, recycling, food processing and engineering.

The rehabilitation exercise includes residential units, commercial rehabilitation, rental housing, infrastructure upgrades and integrated urban planning.

What will the redevelopment include?

The redevelopment aims to create a modern urban ecosystem by providing:

• Free rehabilitation housing for eligible residents.
• Modern road network.
• Water supply and sewerage systems.
• Stormwater drainage.
• Open spaces.
• Schools and healthcare facilities.
• Commercial rehabilitation for eligible businesses.
• Public transport integration.
• Sustainable urban infrastructure.

The project also seeks to preserve Dharavi’s unique economic ecosystem by creating dedicated spaces for small businesses and traditional industries.

Why is the Special Cell important?

Infrastructure projects of this scale require approvals from numerous authorities before construction can proceed.

These include:

• Land-related permissions.
• Environmental clearances.
• Planning approvals.
• Infrastructure utility permissions.
• Financial approvals.
• Coordination with transport agencies.
• Municipal permissions.

The newly established Special Cell is intended to function as a single coordination platform where pending approvals can be reviewed and resolved collectively rather than department by department.

This is expected to significantly reduce administrative delays that often affect mega infrastructure and redevelopment projects.

Government’s Earlier Support

The Government Resolution also notes that:

• Dharavi Redevelopment was declared a “Vital Public Project” in 2007.
• Dharavi has been notified as a Special Planning Area, with the Slum Rehabilitation Authority designated as the Special Planning Authority.
• The state has already granted several policy relaxations through Government Resolutions issued in 2018 and 2022 to facilitate implementation.

The latest decision builds on these earlier measures by introducing an institutional mechanism dedicated solely to expediting approvals.

What Happens Next?

The CEO and Special Officer of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project will prepare and submit a list of all pending permissions before the Special Cell.

Meetings will then be convened based on the departments involved, enabling senior officials to resolve issues quickly and issue necessary approvals.

The move signals the Maharashtra government’s intent to accelerate the execution of the long-awaited redevelopment, which has witnessed multiple delays over the past two decades.

If implemented effectively, the Special Cell could become one of the key administrative mechanisms driving the transformation of Dharavi into a modern, planned urban district while rehabilitating nearly one million residents and protecting its vibrant commercial ecosystem.

Also Read: Dharavi Redevelopment Tender Cancelled

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According to MHADA, Adani Properties secured the highest financial bid for the 34.33-acre Adarsh Nagar cluster in Worli and the 98.27-acre Bandra Reclamation cluster. For the 73.89-acre S.V.P. Nagar redevelopment project in Andheri (West), the highest bid was submitted by a consortium comprising Hanura Realty Pvt. Ltd., Chandak Realtors Pvt. Ltd., Premsagar Infra Realty Pvt. Ltd., and Vantier Realty Pvt. Ltd. Hanura Realty is a subsidiary of JSW Steel Ltd.

The bids will now be placed before the High-Powered Committee constituted for these projects. Following the committee’s approval, the proposals will be forwarded to the Maharashtra government for final approval before the appointment of Construction and Development Agencies (C&DAs) is formalised.

MHADA had invited bids for the three projects on April 8, 2026, with the submission deadline set for May 18. After technical evaluation, the financial bids were opened on May 27.

The three projects are among the largest redevelopment initiatives currently being undertaken by MHADA in Mumbai. Together, they cover nearly 206.5 acres of land in some of the city’s most valuable urban locations. MHADA has stated that eligible residents will receive transit rent during construction and a corpus fund for maintenance after rehabilitation.

Adani’s Growing Presence in Mumbai Redevelopment

The Worli and Bandra Reclamation projects add to a series of large redevelopment assignments secured by Adani Group entities in Mumbai over the past few years.

One of the most significant projects is the redevelopment of Motilal Nagar in Goregaon (West), where Adani Properties emerged as the highest bidder in March 2025. Spread across approximately 143 acres, Motilal Nagar is MHADA’s largest redevelopment project and is estimated to involve investments of around ₹36,000 crore. The project covers Motilal Nagar 1, 2 and 3 and includes rehabilitation of existing residents, commercial occupants and slum tenements.

In July 2025, MHADA signed a formal agreement with Adani Properties for the execution of the Motilal Nagar redevelopment project. MHADA has said the project will add nearly 4 lakh square metres of constructed area to its housing stock while rehabilitating thousands of residents.

In April 2026, MHADA released the master plan for Motilal Nagar, describing it as India’s largest urban redevelopment project. The redevelopment spans around 143 acres and is expected to involve total investments of up to ₹1 lakh crore over multiple phases. Adani Realty is the appointed Construction and Development Agency for the project.

Apart from Motilal Nagar, Adani Group is also executing the Dharavi Redevelopment Project, one of Mumbai’s largest urban renewal initiatives. The group secured the redevelopment contract after emerging as the successful bidder in the government-led tender process.

With Adarsh Nagar (Worli) and Bandra Reclamation now added to the list of projects where Adani Properties has emerged as the highest bidder, the company is associated with multiple large-scale redevelopment and urban renewal projects across Mumbai, including Dharavi and Motilal Nagar. The final award of the Worli and Bandra Reclamation projects will be subject to approvals from the High-Powered Committee and the state government.

For Bandra Reclamation, the project covers approximately 98.27 acres, making it one of the largest MHADA-led cluster redevelopment schemes currently under consideration. The project aims to rehabilitate eligible residents while upgrading infrastructure and public amenities through a comprehensive redevelopment model.

MHADA has stated that all three cluster redevelopment projects are intended to create planned neighbourhoods with modern infrastructure, improved civic amenities and sustainable urban development while ensuring rehabilitation benefits for eligible residents.

Also Read: Adani, Sunteck show interest to acquire HDIL

The post Adani Tops Bid for MHADA’s Worli Cluster Redevelopment, Also Emerges Highest Bidder for Bandra Reclamation appeared first on Square Feat India.

The Urban Development Department issued a public notice dated March 12, 2026, which was published in newspapers on April 23, 2026, inviting objections and suggestions from the public. The proposal seeks to amend Regulation 33(9)(A)(4) of the Development Control and Promotion Regulations (DCPR) 2034 for Greater Mumbai.

Key Highlights of the Proposed Changes

• Minimum Entitlement: Eligible occupants of existing buildings and chawls will receive a minimum carpet area of 370 sq.ft (34.37 sq.m) plus 35% additional fungible area, taking the total unit size to around 500 sq.ft.
• Maximum Free Area: Residents will be entitled to rehabilitation equivalent to the actual carpet area they occupied in the old building, up to a maximum of 70 sq.m (approximately 753 sq.ft) — all provided free of cost as part of the Rehabilitation Residential Component (RRC).
• Beyond 753 sq.ft: Any additional area requested by the occupant will be available at construction cost.
• Important Clarification: This enhanced provision does not apply to pure slum hutment dwellers, who continue to be covered under separate Dharavi Redevelopment Project rules.

The move follows a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, where the need for better rehabilitation standards for building residents was emphasized to ensure smoother implementation of the project.

Background and Rationale

Dharavi, one of Asia’s largest informal settlements, is being redeveloped through a Special Purpose Vehicle. While the core focus has been on slum rehabilitation, thousands of families living in chawls, housing societies, and other formal structures within the redevelopment zone were previously entitled to only 300 sq.ft minimum carpet area.

Officials say the upgrade to 500 sq.ft (and up to 753 sq.ft) will provide significantly improved living conditions, better amenities, and higher resident satisfaction, while making the project more viable for developers through additional incentives.

The proposed modification explicitly states that the 35% fungible area provided for rehabilitation will not be counted towards the developer’s Incentive Sale Component (ISC).

Public Participation Invited

The government has given the public one month from the date of publication (i.e., until approximately May 23, 2026) to submit objections or suggestions. These can be sent in writing to the Deputy Director of Town Planning, Greater Mumbai, at ENSA Hutments, E-Block, Azad Maidan, Mumbai – 400 001.

The full notice is also available on the Maharashtra Government website.

This development is being seen as a resident-friendly step that could set a precedent for cluster redevelopment projects across Mumbai. Stakeholders, including housing societies in Dharavi, are expected to closely review the proposal in the coming weeks.

Also Read: Dharavi Redevelopment Tender Cancelled

The post Dharavi Redevelopment: Non-Slum Dwellers to Get Minimum 500 Sq Ft Homes Under Major Policy Upgrade appeared first on Square Feat India.

The move comes after multiple objections were raised over the proposed boundary map, delaying clarity on land limits in the area.

Why This Committee Has Been Formed

The issue of defining boundaries for Koliwadas (traditional fishing villages) in Mumbai has been under discussion for years.

A survey map prepared in 2018 by the Mumbai City Collector’s office had proposed boundaries for Dharavi Koliwada. However, several stakeholders—including the Dharavi Redevelopment Project—raised objections to the demarcation.

Following these objections, a meeting was held on April 8, 2026, involving local representatives and fishing community groups. Based on the discussions, the government decided to set up a committee to review the matter and make final recommendations.

Who Is in the Committee

The committee will be chaired by the Konkan Divisional Commissioner and includes senior officials from multiple departments such as:

• Land Records Department
• Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation
• Mumbai City and Suburban Collector offices
• Environment Department
• Fisheries Department

The Deputy Director of Land Records (Konkan region) will act as the Member Secretary.

What the Committee Will Do

The panel has been given a clear mandate:

1. Review and finalise the 2018 boundary survey map of Dharavi Koliwada
2. Hear objections from stakeholders, including fishing community representatives
3. Consider previous directions issued in government meetings
4. Conduct additional जांच (inquiry) or site visits if required

The committee has also been given the authority to call for documents from agencies like the BMC, Collector’s office, and Dharavi Redevelopment Project.

Timeline: Report in 3 Months

The committee has been asked to submit a detailed report with recommendations within 3 months.

It can also invite experts or retired officials to assist in the process if needed.

Why This Matters

The demarcation of Dharavi Koliwada is crucial because:

• It impacts land ownership and rights of fishing communities
• It is directly linked to the larger Dharavi redevelopment plan
• It will determine how much land is protected for traditional use

Any final decision will have long-term implications for both development and community preservation.

Background of the Issue

Earlier, in 2012, the government had set guidelines for demarcating Koliwadas across Mumbai. A six-member committee was also formed at the time to establish a proper framework.

However, disputes over actual boundaries continued, especially in areas like Dharavi where redevelopment plans overlap with traditional settlements.

What Happens Next

Once the committee submits its report:

• The state government will take a final call on boundary approval
• This could pave the way for faster decision-making in Dharavi redevelopment
• It may also set a precedent for other Koliwadas in Mumbai

Also Read: Dharavi Redevelopment: 10 Years of No Maintenance

The post Dharavi Koliwada Boundary Dispute: Maharashtra Forms Panel to Finalise Demarcation appeared first on Square Feat India.

Justice Sandeep V. Marne, in his judgment pronounced on 17 March 2026 (reserved on 5 March 2026) in Civil Revision Application (ST.) No. 23914 of 2023, allowed the revision petition filed by the Union of India (Ministry of Law & Justice, Department of Legal Affairs, Deputy Salt Commissioner and Joint Secretary) and set aside the City Civil Court’s order dated 11 November 2022.

The court directed the outright dismissal of Civil Suit No. 6256 of 2005, holding that the suit had become infructuous after the natural expiry of the 99-year lease on 14 October 2016.

Background of the Kanjur Marg Salt Pan Land Dispute

The disputed lands comprise:

• Arthur Salt Works – 251 acres and 21 gunthas (Survey Nos. 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23)
• Jenkins Salt Works – 249 acres and 10 gunthas (Survey No. 169)

Both plots were leased by the Secretary of State for India to the plaintiff’s predecessors on 15 October 1917 for salt manufacturing for a period of 99 years (expiring on 14 October 2016).

The Union of India terminated the leases prematurely on 2 November 2004. The plaintiff challenged the termination orders by filing Suit No. 1173 of 2005 in the Bombay High Court (later transferred and renumbered as Civil Suit No. 6256 of 2005 in the City Civil Court, Mumbai). The suit sought a declaration that the termination orders were illegal and that the lease agreements dated 16 February 1922 were valid, subsisting and binding.

An interim injunction was granted in 2005, allowing the plaintiff to continue in possession.

Expiry of Lease and the Notice of Motion

After the 99-year term ended by efflux of time on 14 October 2016, the Union of India moved Notice of Motion No. 3788 of 2016 seeking dismissal of the suit on the ground that the cause of action had ceased and the suit had become infructuous. The City Civil Court rejected the motion on 11 November 2022, primarily to protect the interim order.

The Union of India then approached the High Court in revision under Section 115 of the CPC.

Key Arguments and Court’s Reasoning

Appearing for the Union of India, Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh (with Mr. Aditya Thakkar, Mr. D.P. Singh, Mr. Adarsh Vyas, Ms. Rama Gupta, Mr. Dhaval Shetia and Ms. Rupali Srivastav) argued that the entire cause of action had evaporated with the expiry of the lease. He relied on the Supreme Court’s judgment in Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. v. Machado Brothers (2004) 11 SCC 168, which holds that courts have inherent power under Section 151 CPC to dismiss infructuous suits when subsequent events render them pointless.

The ASG also cited the Division Bench judgment in Maheshkumar Gordhandas Garodia v. State of Maharashtra (Writ Petition 5362 of 2024, decided 16 February 2026) and the dismissal of a similar suit in Vikas Kamalakar Walawalkar v. Deputy Salt Commissioner.

Opposing the revision, Mr. Aditya Bapat (with Mr. S.A.K. Najam-es-sani) contended that no provision in the CPC allows dismissal merely because the cause of action has ended and that powers under Section 151 cannot be invoked when alternate remedies exist. He argued that the plaintiff had applied for renewal and that an amendment application was pending.

Court’s Ruling: Suit Rendered Infructuous

Justice Marne rejected the plaintiff’s arguments, observing:

• The plaint contained no prayer for renewal of the lease (the amendment application was filed only on 30 June 2025, almost three years after the impugned order).
• The sole substantial prayer — declaration that the 1922 lease agreements were “valid, subsisting and binding” — became meaningless after 14 October 2016.
• There was no need to adjudicate the validity of the 2004 termination orders once the lease term had expired naturally.
• Relying extensively on the Shipping Corporation of India precedent, the court held that a suit cannot be kept alive artificially merely to preserve an interim injunction. “Interlocutory orders are made in aid of final orders and not vice versa,” the judge noted.

The court clarified that powers under Section 151 CPC are available precisely in such situations where no other provision (like Order VII Rule 11) applies to a supervening event that kills the cause of action.

The plaintiff’s request for a four-week stay on the judgment was also rejected.

Operative Order

The Bombay High Court:

1. Set aside the City Civil Court order dated 11 November 2022.
2. Made the Notice of Motion absolute and dismissed Civil Suit No. 6256 of 2005 in its entirety.
3. Passed no order as to costs.

This ruling comes days after the same judge (as part of a Division Bench) dismissed related writ petitions challenging land transfers from these very salt pan parcels.

Also Read: PM to Inaugurate Mumbai Metro Line Today

The post Kanjur Marg Salt Pan Land: Bombay High Court Dismisses 21-Year-Old Suit as 99-Year Lease Expires, Clears Path for Development appeared first on Square Feat India.

Debunking the Ineligibility Myth

Recent claims suggesting that up to 80% of Dharavi residents have been ruled ineligible under the DRP have been debunked by the latest Final Annexure-II data, published up to December 9, 2025. Out of 3,518 tenements surveyed in this batch—a fraction of Dharavi’s total structures—only 75 (approximately 2%) were declared ineligible. Instead, the majority are on track for benefits:

• Eligible for Housing Benefits: 2,009 tenements (57%), including 1,178 (33% of total) qualifying for in-situ rehabilitation, meaning free 350-square-foot homes within a redeveloped Dharavi.
• Undecided/Pending Documents: 1,078 tenements (30.6%), where submissions are incomplete, illegible, or require verification from agencies like BEST (for electricity records), BMC (for licenses), or electoral rolls.
• Public Amenities/Utility Structures: 330 (9.38%), such as community toilets or temples, which aren’t residential.
• Ineligible: Just 75, often due to lack of residency proof or structures built after eligibility cutoffs.

DRP officials stress that pending cases are not rejections. “These are under review and will be resolved once verifications are complete,” said a project spokesperson. Delays stem from discrepancies in old records, such as metadata mismatches in utility bills or missing voter list entries, requiring case-by-case coordination. Residents are urged not to heed unverified rumors targeting areas like Meghwadi, Azad Nagar, Tilak Nagar, and Kamala Raman Nagar as “mass ineligible.”

A Long Road to Redevelopment: Dharavi’s Historical Context

Dharavi’s transformation story dates back over a century. Originally a fishing village in swampy Mumbai outskirts during the late 1800s, it exploded in the 20th century as migrants arrived for industrial jobs, evolving into a bustling informal settlement. By the mid-1900s, it became Asia’s largest slum, spanning 590-620 acres with 700,000 to 1 million residents. Known for its economic vibrancy—generating billions in revenue from small-scale industries like leather tanning, pottery, and recycling—Dharavi has long symbolized urban resilience amid poverty.

Redevelopment ideas emerged in the 1950s-1980s, but formal plans kicked off in the 1990s. The turning point was 2004, when the Maharashtra government, under the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA), launched the DRP. Architect Mukesh Mehta’s vision divided Dharavi into sectors for private developers to build modern housing, subsidized by commercial sales. Global tenders in 2007, 2009, 2011, and 2016 failed due to low bids, political shifts, and resident opposition over displacement fears.

The 2018 tender drew interest from Adani Group and Dubai’s SecLink, with SecLink winning in 2019. However, it was canceled in 2020 over scope changes, including railway land integration. A fresh 2022 tender, with revised rules prioritizing in-situ rehab and options for post-2000 settlers, saw Adani Properties secure the bid at ₹5,069 crore.

By 2023, the project formed a Special Purpose Vehicle (later Navbharat Mega Developers Pvt. Ltd.), with Adani at 80% stake and the government at 20%. International experts like Sasaki and Buro Happold joined for planning. Surveys began in 2024, the master plan was approved, and construction certificates were issued in January 2025. Now, with additional land allocations (e.g., salt pans), the DRP aims to deliver 125,000-200,000 homes over 7-17 years, costing ₹25,000-95,000 crore. Despite controversies like legal challenges and protests, on-ground progress is visible, marking the most advanced phase yet.

Navigating Disputes: The Four-Tier Grievance Redressal System

The Annexure-II lists are not the final word. To ensure fairness, DRP has implemented a streamlined, single-window appeal process for eligibility disputes.

Step 1: Appellate Officer (AO)

Residents start here with initial complaints or document corrections. This officer reviews cases promptly, often resolving simple issues on the spot.

Step 2: Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC)

If unsatisfied, escalate to this panel of senior officials independent of the survey team, ensuring unbiased evaluation.

Step 3: Appellate Committee

Headed by an Additional Collector unaffiliated with the DRP CEO, this level provides higher scrutiny for complex disputes.

Step 4: Apex Grievance Redressal Committee (AGRC)

The final, quasi-judicial body fast-tracks unresolved cases, functioning like a dedicated court for DRP matters.

Officials note this system empowers residents, encouraging active participation rather than reliance on rumors.

Project Vision and Call to Action

Billed as the world’s largest human-centric urban renewal, the DRP seeks “housing for all,” preserving Dharavi’s industries while modernizing infrastructure. With surveys ongoing and more Annexure-II batches expected, the focus remains on inclusive growth. “The transformation is real and can be seen on the ground,” a DRP official said. Dharavikars are called to engage, submit documents, and use official channels for clarity.

Also Read: Devendra Fadnavis Puts Dharavi Redevelopment back on track

The post In Dharavi Redevelopment: Undecided Doesn’t Mean Ineligible appeared first on Square Feat India.

Mumbai is often described as India’s financial capital, the city of dreams, and the beating heart of the nation’s economy. Yet, for millions of its citizens, Mumbai is also the city of broken promises. For decades, the city has been systematically failed — by its politicians, by its administrators, and most consistently, by its own civic body, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

The Paradox of the Richest, Yet Poorest in Service

The BMC is the richest municipal corporation in the country, its budget larger than some Indian states. But this wealth has not translated into quality of life for Mumbaikars. Roads disintegrate within days of being patched. Even a few millimeters of rain choke the city. Potholes kill people every monsoon. Slums emerge overnight and become permanent fixtures under political protection. Garbage management remains erratic.

This paradox is not about money; it is about governance — or rather, the lack of it.

Politicians and Administrators: A Legacy of Neglect

For years, successive governments treated Mumbai as a revenue cow, extracting from it without reinvesting meaningfully. Bureaucrats and civic officials, shielded by corruption and political patronage, turned inefficiency into an art form.

The rot was most visible during the tenure of the UBT-led government. Metro projects that could have significantly eased the burden on commuters were stalled under the guise of “environmental concerns.” Meanwhile, the ambitious BDD Chawl Redevelopment project, floated in 2017 to give over 15,500 families new homes, ground to a halt. In 2020, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), one of the main contractors, threatened to pull out altogether, citing slow progress and administrative hurdles. Thousands of families waiting for dignified housing were left stranded.

This was not governance; it was paralysis.

The Fadnavis Intervention

Contrast this with Devendra Fadnavis’s tenure, where for the first time in decades, Mumbai saw a serious attempt to modernize.

• Coastal Road: A transformative project to ease traffic congestion.
• Atal Setu: Seamless connectivity between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.
• Metro Expansion: The maximum number of metro projects were pushed during his government, offering a real alternative to the city’s overburdened transport.

On housing, his interventions were equally significant. Instead of appointing private developers with questionable motives, Fadnavis placed MHADA in charge of the BDD Chawl Redevelopment, ensuring top-tier contractors were brought in. He also floated global tenders for Dharavi’s redevelopment — Asia’s largest slum — and for GTN Nagar, one of Mumbai’s oldest refugee camps. Crucially, the vision was not displacement, but in-situ rehabilitation, at no cost to original residents.

This marked a rare moment in Mumbai’s history: a government thinking of ordinary Mumbaikars before builders.

The Present Pain and the Path Forward

Yes, today the city is under stress. Traffic jams have worsened, construction disrupts daily life, and patience is wearing thin. But this disruption is the result of decades of neglect finally being confronted. Mumbai is undergoing surgery after years of misdiagnosis. The pain is real, but so is the prospect of healing.

Yet one problem persists: while Fadnavis pushes relentlessly, the city’s administrative machinery does not. The BMC remains riddled with corruption. Civic officials are unaccountable. Police often dismiss the everyday grievances of citizens. Bureaucrats resist change, dragging their feet despite political will.

If Mumbai’s transformation is to succeed, the Chief Minister must now direct his attention towards the city’s officials — tightening the noose around corrupt systems and demanding accountability at every level.

Conclusion: Hope Amidst Betrayal

Mumbai has been failed repeatedly — by politicians who stalled projects, by administrators who obstructed, and by a civic body that squanders its wealth. The UBT government stalled infrastructure and allowed critical projects like BDD Chawl redevelopment to languish.

But under Fadnavis, the city is finally seeing a blueprint for change — roads, bridges, metros, and housing for those who built Mumbai with their sweat.

The frustration today is real. But unlike in the past, so is the hope. Because for the first time in a long time, there is leadership that dares to dream, and more importantly, has the track record to deliver. The battle ahead is not just against potholes or floods, but against the entrenched culture of corruption and apathy that has long defined Mumbai’s governance.

And that is a battle Mumbai cannot afford to lose.

Also Read: Devendra Fadnavis Puts Dharavi Redevelopment back on track

The post What and Who Failed Mumbai? appeared first on Square Feat India.

The redevelopment of Dharavi — one of Asia’s largest informal settlements — is being undertaken by Navbharat Mega Developers Pvt Ltd (NMDPL), a joint venture between Adani Properties Pvt Ltd (80%) and the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) (20%). NMDPL is acting as the lead implementation agency for the integrated redevelopment effort.

The state government had earlier declared the Dharavi project as both an Essential Urban Infrastructure Project and a Special Project, thereby making it eligible for financial concessions under existing policies. In line with this, a proposal was placed before the Cabinet seeking stamp duty relief for sub-lease agreements involving land owned by the Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) and leased to either NMDPL or the SRA.

The Cabinet has now officially approved the inclusion of such lease agreements under the state’s stamp duty concession policy, aiming to reduce financial burden, lower transaction costs, and facilitate faster implementation. According to current rules, stamp duty on long-term leases (over 10 years) is 1%, while registration fees are capped at ₹30,000.

The RLDA is contributing approximately 45 acres of land for the project, and under tender conditions, the SPV is obligated to pay at least ₹2,800 crore for this land parcel.

A senior state official said the move is expected to streamline legal processes and accelerate the start of construction, which has faced repeated delays due to legal, financial, and procedural hurdles. The Dharavi Redevelopment Project spans 240 hectares and directly impacts nearly one million residents, making it one of the most ambitious urban renewal projects in the country.

The stamp duty relief is seen as a critical enabler in ensuring smoother execution of lease transactions and encouraging swift progress on the ground.

Also Read: Dharavi Redevelopment Tender Cancelled

The post Maharashtra Cabinet Approves Stamp Duty Relief For Dharavi Redevelopment appeared first on Square Feat India.

In a historic first, the Maharashtra government has announced a policy shift that will offer rental housing to slum dwellers who are deemed ineligible for free rehabilitation — a move that blends compassion with practicality as part of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project and broader slum policy reforms under the State Housing Policy 2025.

This is the first time that the government has formally recognized the housing needs of those who fall outside the eligibility criteria, offering them affordable, safe rental units instead of eviction or neglect.

The Problem with ‘Ineligible’ Slum Dwellers

Historically, many residents in slum areas — especially those who settled after the cut-off date or lacked proper documentation — were labelled as “ineligible” and excluded from housing benefits under rehabilitation schemes. This left thousands without legal shelter or stability, even as redevelopment projects advanced.

In places like Dharavi, where over a million people live, this created a social and legal grey zone.

A Humane Policy Shift: Affordable Rental Housing

Under the new policy:

• Ineligible slum dwellers will be provided rental accommodation in government-built projects.
• These units will be affordable, secure, and located close to existing urban areas.
• This initiative will first be rolled out as part of the Dharavi Redevelopment, but is expected to be replicated in other major cities.

How It Will Work:

• A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) will be formed to oversee the construction and operation of rental housing blocks.
• A professional Asset Management Company will be appointed to manage maintenance, rent collection, and tenant services.
• Eligibility norms, rent structure, cut-off date, and allocation process will be outlined in a separate rental housing policy (to be released soon).
• The policy will include transparent mechanisms to prevent misuse while ensuring dignity for informal residents.

Why This Matters:

This move is being hailed as “a dignified alternative to eviction” by urban planners and social housing experts.
It addresses two major concerns:

1. The need to accommodate people who live and work in cities but don’t qualify for traditional rehabilitation.
2. The importance of ensuring redevelopment projects like Dharavi don’t lead to mass displacement or unrest.

Expert Speak:

“This is a paradigm shift. Recognizing that even ineligible slum dwellers are citizens with housing needs is a huge step forward. It offers legal shelter, dignity, and avoids the fallout of forced displacement.”
— Urban Housing Analyst, Mumbai.

Integrated with Broader Slum Redevelopment

• The policy also strengthens in-situ slum rehabilitation (ISSR) and cluster redevelopment.
• Redevelopment will now be linked to urban infrastructure and livelihoods, ensuring slum areas evolve into integrated, legal neighborhoods.

Also Read: Rental Price Growth Drops 50% In Top Cities as Housing Supply Surges

The post Rental Housing for Ineligible Slum Dwellers: Maharashtra’s Housing Policy 2025 Offers Humane Alternative in Dharavi & Beyond appeared first on Square Feat India.

Hospitality investments in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region remain resilient in the first quarter of 2025, as capital continues to gravitate toward high-liquidity markets like Japan, South Korea, and Australia. According to Colliers’ latest report, Asia Pacific Hospitality Insights – May 2025, the sector is transitioning from post-pandemic recovery to sustained, performance-led growth.

The report highlights that hotel transaction activity is being led by established markets, with Japan, South Korea, and Australia topping the list in terms of deal volume. Singapore has emerged as a preferred destination for generational wealth investments, while India and Southeast Asia are evolving as crucial demand engines.

India’s Rising Influence in APAC Hospitality

A key highlight of the report is the role of Indian outbound travel in shaping the regional hospitality landscape. Indian travelers are emerging as a year-round, dependable demand source, especially in destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, and South Korea. This surge is attributed to rising disposable incomes and a growing preference for experience-driven travel, helping maintain strong room rates and reshaping regional hospitality dynamics.

“India is driving a structural shift in Asia Pacific’s hospitality landscape,” said Nikhil Shah, Managing Director, Hospitality & Alternatives at Colliers. “With strong demand across the luxury, lifestyle, and MICE segments, and rising investor confidence in experience-led assets, India is now central to regional tourism flows, sustaining premium pricing and reshaping travel dynamics.”

Spiritual Tourism Fueling Domestic Growth

Domestically, India’s hospitality sector is poised for robust growth, with Tier II cities and spiritual destinations becoming the next frontiers of expansion.
Places like Ayodhya, Dwarka, Puri, Shirdi, Tirupati, and Varanasi are witnessing infrastructure upgrades and government-backed initiatives, making them attractive for hospitality investments.

“Spiritual tourism is emerging as a key growth driver, backed by focused policy support and infrastructure development,” said Vimal Nadar, National Director and Head of Research at Colliers India. “These destinations are unlocking new investment avenues and reshaping India’s hospitality map.”

Q1 2025 Performance Overview

Despite a 19% dip in overall APAC hotel deal volumes in Q1 2025, hotel performance remained strong, supported by a rise in Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) and Average Daily Rates (ADR). RevPAR grew by 2.1% year-on-year, a significant improvement from the 0.4% growth seen between 2023 and 2024.

Leading markets in ADR growth include Phuket, Tokyo, New Delhi, Mumbai, and Osaka, buoyed by strong domestic demand, effective market positioning, and a resurgence in international travel.

“These markets exemplify a rate-driven performance strategy and set a benchmark for value-oriented expansion,” the report notes.

Investor Strategy Shifts Toward Value-Add

While geopolitical uncertainties contributed to a cautious Q1, investors are expected to become more active as market stability improves. According to Govinda Singh, Executive Director, APAC Capital Markets at Colliers, the focus is shifting from cap rate compression to value-add strategies aimed at boosting cash flow and long-term income.

“With pricing holding firm, the imperative to deploy capital is intensifying. We anticipate a pickup in activity through the rest of the year,” Singh said.

Looking Ahead

The Asia Pacific hospitality sector is entering a new phase of stabilized, performance-focused growth. With India emerging as both a powerful outbound force and a robust domestic market, the region is expected to see deeper investment interest and a renewed focus on operational excellence, occupancy-driven strategy, and guest experience.

Also Read: Indian Hospitality Sector Booms: Strong Growth in RevPAR and Investments

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