The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step toward addressing the housing crisis arising from the demolition of unauthorized constructions. Following the Urban Development Department’s (UDD) directive on February 25, 2025, to municipal corporations, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), and municipal councils to take strict action against illegal structures, the government has also pledged housing support to families affected by such demolitions.
Government’s Commitment to Housing Support
To ensure that displaced families are not left homeless, the government has directed local authorities to register eligible families under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). In cases where immediate housing under PMAY is not available, the government will provide rental accommodation in a permanent transitional camp for a fixed period.
Key highlights of the state government’s order:
- Families displaced by demolitions will be registered under PMAY for permanent housing.
- In case of delays in PMAY housing, affected families will be provided rental housing.
- Families belonging to the economically weaker sections (EWS) and low-income groups (LIG) will be charged rental fees based on prevailing market rates.
- If rental housing supply is insufficient, allocations will be decided through a lottery system.
- After staying in rental housing for a specific period, residents may be given an opportunity to claim ownership of the allotted homes.
Legal Action Against Illegal Construction Stakeholders
Alongside offering housing support, the UDD’s directive mandates local authorities to initiate legal proceedings against individuals and entities responsible for unauthorized constructions. This includes:
- Landowners who permit or facilitate illegal construction.
- Architects and engineers involved in unauthorized building designs.
- Construction professionals and contractors responsible for executing unapproved projects.
The government has clarified that while housing assistance will be provided to displaced families, no relief measures will be extended to individuals who lose their livelihoods due to the demolition of illegal structures.
Implementation Challenges and Municipal Response
While some municipalities have been actively relocating people displaced by infrastructure projects, housing support for those affected by demolition of unauthorized buildings is a new policy development. Rajesh Bankar, superintendent engineer of the Building Permission Department, stated:
“The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) usually provides shelter to people affected by road projects. However, we have not yet provided housing support to residents displaced due to action against unauthorized constructions. After the state government’s order, we will review the situation.”
Conclusion
Maharashtra’s decision to provide housing support under PMAY for families displaced by unauthorized construction demolitions marks a progressive step toward balancing urban regulation with social responsibility. While strict legal action will be taken against builders and landowners violating construction laws, displaced residents will have access to alternative housing solutions. The success of this initiative will depend on effective implementation, fair allocation of housing, and the timely provision of resources to the affected families.
