The expansion comes with the approval of the 11.83-km-long extension, designated as Phase 5A, which extends the corridor beyond its earlier 22.38 km length. The total estimated cost of the expanded corridor now stands at ₹18,130 crore.

At the same time, Phase 1 of the project—from Thane to Dhamankar Naka—is nearing a crucial milestone, with preparations underway for inspection by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS), bringing it closer to commissioning by the end of 2026.

Critical Link for Emerging Economic Corridors

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described Metro Line 5 as a “critical intervention” for the eastern belt of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, particularly for Bhiwandi and the Kalyan–Dombivli region.

“Bhiwandi, home to one of Asia’s largest textile and warehousing hubs, and the Kalyan–Dombivli belt, with a population exceeding 35 lakh, require high-capacity connectivity to unlock their economic potential,” he said, expressing confidence that Phase 1 would be operational by year-end.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde noted that the corridor would serve lakhs of commuters, including workers and traders, while strengthening linkages between industrial clusters and residential zones.

Three Phases, One Integrated Corridor

Metro Line 5 is being developed in three phases:

• Phase 1 (Thane–Dhamankar Naka): Spanning 11.9 km with six stations, this stretch is nearing completion, with depot infrastructure at Kasheli progressing rapidly.
• Phase 2 (Dhamankar Naka–Durgadi): A 10.48-km section featuring a mix of elevated and underground stations, including a key underground stop at Bhiwandi.
• Phase 5A (Durgadi–Kalyan with Ulhasnagar spur): The newly approved 11.83-km extension will include seven elevated stations and a spur line connecting Ulhasnagar.

The corridor has been designed to ensure seamless multimodal integration, with interchanges planned with Metro Line 4 at Balkhum and Metro Line 12 at Kalyan, along with direct access to suburban railway stations such as Thane, Kalyan, and Ulhasnagar.

Transforming Mobility and Real Estate Dynamics

Officials estimate that the metro line will reduce travel time across the corridor by 40–50%, easing congestion on key highways such as NH-160, NH-61 and NH-848. The project is also expected to significantly reduce dependence on private vehicles, contributing to lower emissions and improved air quality.

Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, Metropolitan Commissioner of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), said the project aligns with the broader “Mumbai in Minutes” vision, aimed at drastically cutting commute times across the region.

Beyond transportation, the corridor is expected to unlock new real estate and industrial growth opportunities across the eastern MMR belt. Improved connectivity to Bhiwandi’s logistics and warehousing ecosystem, along with residential hubs in Kalyan, Dombivli and Ulhasnagar, is likely to drive both housing demand and commercial development.

A Step Towards Regional Integration

Covering key residential, industrial and commercial nodes, Metro Line 5 represents a major step towards building a more integrated and efficient transport network for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

As Phase 1 moves closer to commissioning and the expanded corridor takes shape, the project is poised to play a pivotal role in reshaping urban mobility while catalysing long-term economic growth across one of India’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions.

Also Read: Mumbai Unveils Its First Double-Decker Flyover Featuring an Integrated Metro Line

The post MMR Metro Line 5 Expansion to 34 km Boosts Connectivity Across Thane–Kalyan Belt appeared first on Square Feat India.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Suman Shyam allowed RIL’s writ petition (WP No. 242 of 2018) and quashed two demand notices issued by MMRDA — dated September 12, 2017 and June 13, 2019. The court held that the demands were arbitrary, unreasonable and violative of Article 14 of the Constitution.

Chronology of Events: How the Dispute Unfolded

• December 2005: MMRDA invites bids for leasing Plot No. C-64 (approx. 75,000 sq m) in G-Block, BKC, for a Convention & Exhibition Centre and Commercial Complex.
• February 15, 2006: Reliance is declared the successful bidder. Total premium agreed: ₹1,104 crore for 1,15,000 sq m built-up area.
• September 1, 2006: Lease Deed executed for 80 years. Article 2(d) requires completion of construction “fit for occupation” within four years from the date of the lease (i.e., by September 2010). Article 2(e) provides for extension of time only on payment of additional premium (25–40% of premium paid).
• 2007: FSI in G-Block increased from 2.0 to 4.0. MMRDA allots additional 72,500 sq m built-up area to Reliance for ₹696 crore. Supplementary Lease Deed signed on July 13, 2007.
• October 15, 2007: Bombay High Court passes interim order in WP No. 1165 of 2007 restraining Reliance from utilising 31,500 sq m of the additional commercial FSI. The project, being composite (common basement and foundation), is effectively stalled.
• June 12, 2008: Plinth-level Commencement Certificate (CC) issued only for Convention Centre, but construction cannot proceed due to the court stay.
• 2009–2011: Reliance repeatedly informs MMRDA that the integrated design makes separate construction impossible. It offers to surrender the additional FSI and seeks refund, but MMRDA refuses.
• February 1, 2012: MMRDA clarifies in writing that the period of court stay will be excluded while calculating the four-year timeline.
• March 12, 2012: WP No. 1165 of 2007 withdrawn; court stay vacated.
• March–April 2012: MMRDA allots further 1,25,000 sq m additional built-up area for ₹1,837.5 crore. Total built-up area now stands at 3,12,500 sq m. Total premium paid by Reliance: ₹4,005 crore.
• 2013–April 2014: Multiple statutory clearances obtained (Environment Clearance in June 2013, MCGM permissions, aviation height clearance, High-Rise Committee approval). Composite Commencement Certificate for the entire project issued on April 16, 2014.
• August 26, 2015: MMRDA amends its policy and extends the construction timeline from 4 years to 6 years for all new leases executed after this date.
• November 18, 2016: Under pressure to obtain further CCs, Reliance gives an undertaking to pay additional premium (if demanded) before receiving Occupation Certificate.
• September 12, 2017: MMRDA issues first demand-cum-show cause notice alleging 7 years and 12 days delay and demands penalty (amount not legible in notice).
• November 30, 2017: Reliance files writ petition challenging the demand.
• February 2019: Reliance deposits ₹646.77 crore under protest and furnishes bank guarantees to secure part Occupation Certificate for 44,621 sq m.
• June 13, 2019: MMRDA issues second demand for another ₹1,116.83 crore towards the additional built-up area.
• July 12, 2021: High Court grants interim relief directing MMRDA to process Occupation Certificate applications without insisting on the second demand.
• January 22, 2026: Final arguments concluded.
• April 8, 2026: Judgment pronounced — Reliance wins on all counts.

Court’s Key Reasoning

The bench held that:

1. The project was composite and integrated — common basement and services made it impossible to complete the original portion independently of the additional FSI.
2. Delays were caused by factors beyond Reliance’s control: court stay (over 4 years), multiple statutory approvals, and fresh Commencement Certificates required after additional allotments.
3. The four-year timeline in the 2006 Lease Deed could not be applied rigidly once MMRDA itself allotted massive additional built-up area and later extended the timeline to six years for newer lessees.
4. Denying the six-year benefit to Reliance while granting it to later lessees was arbitrary and discriminatory.
5. The 2017 and 2019 demand notices were vague, not preceded by proper show-cause notice, and issued in violation of principles of natural justice.
6. The ₹646.77 crore was paid under coercion (to obtain Occupation Certificate and avoid lease termination). Hence, the doctrine of waiver/estoppel did not apply.

The court relied heavily on its earlier judgment in Raghuleela Builders Pvt Ltd vs MMRDA (2019), where similar demands were struck down.

Final Order

• Both demand notices quashed.
• MMRDA directed to refund ₹646,77,68,594 within 90 days, failing which interest will be payable at the rate stipulated in the Lease Deed.
• Bank guarantees to remain valid for 90 days.
• No costs imposed on either party.

Senior Advocate Vikram Nankani, instructed by A.S. Dayal & Associates, appeared for Reliance. Dr. Birendra Saraf, Senior Advocate, represented MMRDA.

The judgment is expected to have far-reaching implications for several other developers in BKC who have faced similar penalty demands from MMRDA.

Also Read: Reliance Industries Among Key Clients as Interarch Building Products Secures Orders Worth INR 634 CR

The post Reliance to Receive ₹647 Crores from MMRDA in the BKC Convention Centre Case appeared first on Square Feat India.

The case stemmed from the acquisition of 629.37 sq.m of land in Kurla (CTS Nos. 57 and sub-divisions, Mouje Kurla-4) for the Santacruz-Chembur Link Road (SCLR) widening project. Notifications under Section 32 of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority Act, 1974 (MMRDA Act) led to the land vesting in the state in March 2011, with possession taken in May 2011.

In December 2012, the Competent Authority passed an award offering only TDR as compensation, claiming the landowners (predecessors of the petitioners) had made no demand. The petitioners—legal heirs Jyoti Baliram Thorat and others—insisted on cash, arguing that Section 35 of the MMRDA Act mandates monetary compensation through a strict step-by-step process: first attempt agreement on the amount (Section 35(2)), and if no agreement, calculate 100 times the net average monthly income from the land over the prior five years (Sections 35(3)–(5)).

The petitioners repeatedly approached MMRDA for cash compensation, but received no relief. In April 2024, MMRDA rejected their demand outright, stating the award could not be modified and suggesting court action since no tribunal under Section 41 existed.

Represented by Senior Advocate Neeta Karnik, the petitioners argued that forcing TDR violated the Act’s plain language (which repeatedly uses “amount” for cash) and deprived them of appeal rights under Section 35(6), which only covers disputes over the quantum of monetary compensation—not the form itself.

MMRDA (represented by Senior Advocate G. S. Hegde) and the state (Additional Government Pleader Jyoti Chavan) defended the award, citing delay (petition filed in 2024 for a 2012 award), alternative remedy via tribunal, and alleged acquiescence (some old letters seeking TDR monetization or alternative accommodation for remaining land).

The Court demolished these defences:

• TDR not permitted under MMRDA Act — Section 35 is a “self-contained code” for monetary compensation only. Unlike the MRTP Act (where TDR is explicitly allowed), the MMRDA Act mentions no such option. Even hypothetically under the agreement clause (Section 35(2)), TDR requires mutual consent—not unilateral imposition. The Court heavily relied on its own Full Bench precedent in Shree Vinayak Builders (2022), which held that even under MRTP Act, TDR vs. cash requires consensus.
• No alternative remedy — Tribunal appeal under Section 35(6) is limited to challenging the calculated “amount,” not the choice of TDR over cash.
• Delay & laches no bar — Following Supreme Court rulings like Sukh Dutt Ratra (2022), Kolkata Municipal Corporation vs. Bimal Kumar Shah (2024), and Vidya Devi (2020), the Court held that violation of Article 300A (right to property—no deprivation except by authority of law, plus fair compensation) is a continuing wrong and a human right. The state cannot shield itself with delay when fair monetary compensation was never provided. The petitioners’ persistent grievances and MMRDA’s 2024 rejection triggered fresh cause of action.

The Bench declared the 2012 award “arbitrary, illegal and unsustainable,” quashed it along with the 2024 letter, and directed:

• Redetermination of compensation strictly per Section 35 (monetary terms, following latest government resolutions for fair valuation).
• Completion within six months.

This ruling reinforces that in MMRDA Act acquisitions in municipal areas, cash is the default and TDR cannot be forced. It could impact many old MMRDA projects where TDR was unilaterally awarded, empowering landowners to demand proper monetary redress even years later.

The judgment underscores the constitutional sanctity of property rights amid rapid urban development in Mumbai.

Also Read: MMRDA Sets Reserve Price at ₹1,629 Crore for 10 FSI Wadala Plot Lease Auction

The post MMRDA Ordered To Give Cash Compensation Not TDR To Landowners in Kurla appeared first on Square Feat India.

A High-Speed Corridor Connecting Thane to Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

The elevated freeway will stretch from Anand Nagar in Thane to Chheda Nagar in Ghatkopar, passing through key nodes including:

• Mulund
• Airoli
• JVLR
• Vikhroli
• Kanjurmarg
• Mankhurd
• Ghatkopar

At Thane, the corridor will integrate seamlessly with the Anand Nagar–Saket Elevated Road near the old Mulund Octroi Naka, creating a continuous high-speed chain of connectivity.

It will also enhance onward access to the Samruddhi Mahamarg, strengthening links between Mumbai and Maharashtra’s emerging growth corridors.

Designed for Faster, Cleaner, Greener Commutes

The freeway extension is expected to:

• Decongest the Eastern Express Highway, one of Mumbai’s busiest arterial roads
• Reduce vehicular emissions by cutting travel time and idling
• Boost economic activity across the MMR (Mumbai Metropolitan Region)
• Improve commute reliability for lakhs of daily travellers

The MMRDA has also emphasized sustainable planning—saving 127 Pink Trumpet trees after realigning the Vikhroli–Ghatkopar portion. Additionally, 4,175 new trees will be planted as compensatory green cover.

Engineering Highlights: First-of-its-Kind Design in MMR

The project features advanced engineering systems, including:

2.5 m diameter monopiles
Robust piers and 40-metre spans
A 25-metre single-segment superstructure
Single-pile, single-pier system — the first for an elevated road in MMR
Up–down ramps near Mulund Check Naka, Airoli Junction, and Vikhroli Junction
3+3 lane elevated toll plaza near Navghar Flyover
Fully signal-free, uninterrupted high-speed movement

Progress Report: What’s Done and What’s Next?

As per the official update:

• Preliminary survey works are completed
• Test piles have been cast
• Geotechnical investigations are mostly finished
• Utility mapping is substantially complete
• Working piles and pier construction are currently underway

With construction progressing pillar-by-pillar, the elevated corridor is expected to reshape mobility patterns across the eastern corridor of Mumbai.

A Faster, Greener MMR Is Taking Shape

The Eastern Freeway Extension marks a major step towards creating a future-ready, sustainable, and well-connected Mumbai Metropolitan Region. As work advances, millions of commuters stand to benefit from drastically reduced travel times, smoother traffic flow, and improved air quality.

Also Read: Thane, Navi Mumbai, SBD North preferred Office locations

The post South Mumbai to Thane in Just 25 Minutes: MMRDA Begins Work on 13.9 km Elevated Eastern Freeway Extension appeared first on Square Feat India.

Project Highlights

• Total length: 55.12 km – Main sea link: 24.25 km – Uttan connector: 9.32 km – Vasai connector: 2.5 km – Virar connector: 18.95 km
• Construction period: 60 months (5 years)
• Key interchanges at Uttan–Bhayandar, Vasai, and Virar
• The bridge has been officially named “Mumbai–Vadhavan Expressway Connectivity” and will be branded as Uttan–Virar Sea Link (UVSL).

Funding Break-up

The ₹58,755-crore project will be financed through a mix of state support, MMRDA equity, and external borrowing:

The state will provide ₹8,236 crore towards GST/CGST, ₹2,619 crore for land acquisition, and ₹261 crore for rehabilitation & resettlement. External debt will be raised on “back-to-back” basis, with the state offering sovereign guarantee if required.

Strategic Importance

The sea link is expected to drastically reduce travel time between western suburbs and the northern Palghar–Vadhavan corridor, ease chronic congestion on SV Road and the Western Express Highway, and support the upcoming Vadhavan Port and Delhi–Mumbai Industrial Corridor. It will also integrate with ongoing projects such as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (Atal Setu), Versova–Virar Sea Link, and the Mumbai Coastal Road.

Key Approvals Granted

• Dedicated toll system under “Access-Controlled” mechanism
• Land acquisition under the 1966 Maharashtra Town Planning Act or the 2013 Right to Fair Compensation Act
• Free transfer of government land and monetisation of reserve plots along the alignment
• Permission to constitute a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) in future if needed
• Rehabilitation package for project-affected persons as per existing MTP project policy

The government has directed MMRDA to complete the project within the sanctioned cost and timeline, with strict instructions that any cost overrun will be entirely borne by MMRDA.

With this approval, the Uttan–Virar Sea Link joins the league of mega infrastructure projects reshaping Mumbai’s connectivity and is poised to become a vital north–south coastal artery for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

The post Maharashtra Cabinet Approves ₹58,755-Crore Uttan–Virar Sea Link (Phase-1) appeared first on Square Feat India.

As of November 13, a total of seven piles have been completed at the site.

VJTI Experts Monitoring Structural Safety

To address these concerns, the contractor appointed experts from VJTI to conduct continuous structural health monitoring of the surrounding buildings during the piling process.

The VJTI team has installed specialized instruments, including:

• Accelerometers to track vibration levels
• Crack-width gauges to measure any changes in existing cracks
• Tilt sensors to capture structural movement

Residents were briefed on how the monitoring equipment works and how the data will help ensure the buildings remain safe.

Joint Visit with Residents to Reassure Community

On November 14, officials from MMRDA, VJTI’s expert professors, and project advisors held a joint site visit with the concerned residents. During the visit, experts explained the safety tests, vibration analysis, and the monitoring process in detail.

Preventive Measures Recommended by VJTI

To minimize vibration impact during pile boring, VJTI experts recommended specific precautionary steps, including:

• Reducing RPM of the piling rig during socketing in hard rock
• Keeping noise levels low while removing mud from the auger
• Continuous vibration monitoring throughout the pile boring process

These measures aim to reduce the stress on nearby heritage-age buildings while allowing work on the key infrastructure project to continue safely.

Also Read: Hiranandani Communities launches 1mn sqft of Residential Sector at Hiranandani Fortune city, township in Panvel in FY 23 

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Government Issues Notice to Change Land Use

The Government of Maharashtra has officially proposed to delete the reservation for a “Marine Research Institute, Aquarium and Exhibition Center” on the Worli Dairy land and include the plot in the Commercial Zone, paving the way for its redevelopment into a commercial hub.

This proposed modification has been issued under Section 37(1AA) of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act, 1966 and was published on 25 September 2025 by the Urban Development Department. The notice invites public objections and suggestions within one month from its publication.

Worli Dairy Land: A Prime Parcel in the City’s Heart

The land in question — spread over 6.40 hectares — lies in Worli Division, a prime central Mumbai location. Under the Development Plan 2034, the plot was earlier marked as a “Dairy” (EP4.1) and zoned as a Residential Zone.

Later, in 2022, the government modified this to reserve:

• A portion of the land for a Marine Research Institute, Aquarium and Exhibition Center
• The remaining for Government Offices

This vision, however, is now being replaced by a commercial land use plan.

MMRDA to Take Charge of Redevelopment

The shift towards commercial development follows a proposal by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) in January 2024, in which it highlighted that:

• The Worli Dairy land is centrally located, making it ideal for a planned commercial and mixed-use development.
• Such development could generate new employment opportunities and contribute to Mumbai’s economic growth.
• MMRDA requested the handover of the land and to be appointed as the Special Planning Authority (SPA) for the site.

Subsequently, in a Growth Hub Governing Council meeting chaired by the Chief Minister on 7 April 2025, it was decided to appoint MMRDA as the Project Implementing Agency. MMRDA will now prepare a Draft Planning Proposal for the site and submit it to the state government for sanction.

Public Objections and Suggestions Invited

As part of the statutory planning process, the Urban Development Department has invited objections and suggestions from the public regarding the proposed modification.

• Citizens and stakeholders can submit their views within one month from the date of publication of the notice in the Maharashtra Government Gazette.
• Submissions should be made to the Deputy Director of Town Planning, Greater Mumbai, at Azad Maidan.
• A plan showing the proposed modification is available for inspection at:
  • The Office of the Chief Engineer (Development Plan), BMC Headquarters, Mahapalika Marg
  • The Office of the Deputy Director of Town Planning, ENSA Hutments, Azad Maidan

What This Means for Mumbai

The deletion of the aquarium and marine research reservation and the conversion of Worli Dairy land into Commercial Zone marks a significant shift in land use policy.

This decision could:

• Unlock new commercial development opportunities in a prime location
• Potentially bring offices, mixed-use spaces, and economic activity to Worli
• Signal a push towards economic hub development in central Mumbai, aligning with the government’s Growth Hub vision

Next Steps

After the objection period ends, the Deputy Director of Town Planning will examine all submissions and submit a report to the government. Once approved, the modification will formally become part of the Development Plan 2034, allowing commercial redevelopment to begin.

Also Read: Encroachment Free Worli Road, Developers Say Will Benefit Area’s Real Estate.

The post Maha Govt Proposes to Convert Worli Dairy Land into a Commercial Zone, Replacing the Marine Aquarium Plan appeared first on Square Feat India.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is scheduled to inaugurate the foundation stone ceremony at 2 PM, setting in motion a massive rehabilitation and redevelopment effort that will directly impact nearly 17,000 slum dwellers.

A Project That’s Been Years in the Making

For years, the redevelopment of Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar and Kamaraj Nagar remained stalled due to land ownership issues, eligibility verification, and administrative hurdles.

It was only through a Government Order issued on 21 September 2023 that the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) was officially permitted to undertake the Slum Rehabilitation Scheme in joint venture with the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA). This marked the first time in MMRDA’s 50-year history that the agency would act as a developer on a slum rehabilitation project.

The Scale: 31.82 Hectares, 17,000 Slum Dwellers

The redevelopment covers 31.82 hectares, strategically located along the Eastern Express Highway in Ghatkopar.
Key connectivity points include:

• 2.5 km from Ghatkopar Railway Station
• 4.8 km from Mumbai Airport
• 12 km from Bandra–Worli Sea Link
• 9.5 km from the Shivdi–Nhava Sheva Trans Harbour Link

Out of the total government land required, 15.63 hectares have already been transferred to MMRDA, enabling work to begin on-site.

What Residents Will Get

Each eligible slum dweller will receive a free 1 BHK unit of 300 sq. ft. carpet area, equipped with vitrified tile flooring, granite kitchen platforms, anodized windows, marble lobby flooring, and modern lifts.

Key Rehabilitation Features:

• Roads, drainage, water supply, playgrounds, and primary schools
• Solar panels and rainwater harvesting facilities
• Water and sewage treatment plants (WTP/STP)
• 10-year post-O.C. maintenance by the contractor
• Commercial spaces for local businesses to thrive

Additionally, ₹137.50 crore in advance rent has been paid to eligible residents to support them during the construction phase.

Phase 1: 4,345 Homes, ₹1,299 Crore Cost

The first phase will focus on the rehabilitation of 4,345 slum dwellers.

• Biometric surveys have been completed and eligibility lists published.
• Phase 1 tendering was completed on 30 September 2025, and the lowest bidder has been appointed.
• Construction will commence immediately after today’s inauguration.
• Estimated cost for rehabilitation buildings in Phase 1: ₹1,299 crore (excluding GST)
• Project completion timeline: 36 months

Work Done So Far (2023–2025)

• September 2023: Project officially launched jointly by MMRDA and SRA
• August 2024: Appointment of architects and PMC through work orders
• September 2024: CM handed rent cheques to slum dwellers
• 2023–2025: Land transferred, agreements executed, and 3,662 huts vacated for site clearance
• September 2025: Phase 1 contractor finalized

A Model for Future Urban Redevelopment

This project is more than just a housing scheme — it is designed as a model of sustainable, technologically advanced urban rehabilitation. With commercial hubs planned alongside residential towers, the scheme is expected to generate local employment and empower communities, especially women.

The Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar redevelopment aligns with the government’s vision of a ‘Slum-Free Maharashtra’ and is expected to become a template for future large-scale rehabilitation projects in Mumbai.

Also Read: Supreme Court Clears Redevelopment of Bharat Nagar Slum in Bandra

The post 17,000 Lives, 31 Hectares, 1 Landmark Project: Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar Redevelopment Kicks Off Today appeared first on Square Feat India.

The announcement was made by Deputy Chief Minister and Housing Minister Eknath Shinde at the MHADA Konkan Board computerized lottery draw held in Thane, where 5,354 tenements and 77 plots were allotted through a transparent digital process.

₹50 Lakh Crore Investment for 35 Lakh Homes

Maharashtra is targeting the construction of 35 lakh homes statewide in the next five years, fuelled by a ₹50 lakh crore investment pipeline through both public and private sector participation.

The state is also working towards the PM Awas Yojana (Urban) target of two crore homes, with an emphasis on housing for working women, senior citizens, and rental housing options to address urban housing demand.

Shinde highlighted that the Central Government’s GST reduction on housing has further lowered costs, offering relief to homebuyers and boosting construction momentum.

30 Lakh Homes in MMR by 2030

Under the MMR Growth Hub Plan, the government has set a goal of 30 lakh new homes in MMR by 2030, with MHADA directly or indirectly delivering about 8 lakh homes.

The massive response to the Konkan Board lottery — 1,58,424 applications for 5,354 homes — reflects rising public trust in MHADA’s transparent allotment systems, Shinde noted. He instructed MHADA to maintain quality standards and ensure projects are completed within stipulated timelines to meet this ambitious target.

Acceleration of Pending Redevelopment Projects

The government has directed MHADA, CIDCO, MMRDA, MIDC, and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to focus on completing pending slum rehabilitation and redevelopment projects. This includes several long-delayed schemes that are now being fast-tracked under the revised housing policy.

Key redevelopment projects expected to contribute around two lakh homes in the next five years include:

• BDD Chawls
• Sindhi refugee buildings at Sion Koliwada
• Kamathipura redevelopment
• Abhyudaya Nagar (Kalachowki)
• Motilal Nagar (Goregaon)
• Siddharth Nagar (Patrachawl)
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Nagar (Andheri)
• Bandra Reclamation
• Adarsh Nagar (Worli)
• Jogeshwari PMGP Poonam Nagar

These projects are expected to unlock large tracts of underutilized urban land, paving the way for affordable and mid-income housing.

Strong Track Record and Mill Worker Housing

MHADA Vice President and CEO Sanjeev Jaiswal highlighted that this was the fourth computerized lottery held by the Konkan Board in the last three years, allotting a total of 13,500 tenements during this period.

Across all regional boards — Pune, Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Nagpur — MHADA has allotted 41,500 tenements in the same timeframe.

Additionally, nearly 20,000 mill workers have already been allotted homes, and eligibility for around one lakh mill workers and their heirs has been finalized to speed up future allotments.

Also Read: RBI Monetary Policy – Can the Housing Market Absorb Another Hike?

The post 🏡 35 Lakh Homes, ₹50 Lakh Crore Investment: Maharashtra Unveils Massive Housing Push for MMR appeared first on Square Feat India.

The decision was formalized through a Government Resolution (GR) issued by the Housing Department on September 3, 2025. The move follows approvals from the central government to transfer 255.9 acres of salt pan land in Mumbai and its suburbs for construction of rental and affordable housing for ineligible residents displaced under the Dharavi Redevelopment scheme.

Committee Composition

The committee will be chaired by the Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue & Forest Department, with the following members:

• Additional Chief Secretary, Housing Department
• Additional Chief Secretary, Urban Development Department (UD-1)
• Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA
• Collector, Mumbai Suburban District
• Chief Executive Officer & Special Officer, Dharavi Redevelopment Project (Member Secretary)

The panel’s mandate is to pursue and resolve the ongoing and pending court cases connected to the central government-owned salt pan lands.

Background

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project, one of the world’s largest slum redevelopment initiatives, requires additional land to rehouse ineligible residents outside Dharavi’s notified boundaries. While the central government had approved the transfer of 255.9 acres of salt pan land for this purpose, progress was hampered due to ongoing litigation around the Kanjurmarg and Bhandup plots.

By setting up this empowered committee, the state government aims to expedite legal clearances and ensure smoother execution of the project.

What’s Next

The GR notes that the committee will provide guidance and take necessary legal steps to resolve disputes, enabling the construction of rental and affordable housing for thousands of families. This marks another significant step in pushing forward the ambitious Dharavi project, which has faced multiple delays over land and legal issues.

Also Read: Dharavi Redevelopment Tender Cancelled

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