In a landmark decision set to transform two iconic Mumbai neighbourhoods, the Maharashtra government has officially cleared the redevelopment of MHADA’s Bandra Reclamation and Adarsh Nagar (Worli) housing colonies. This move, announced via a government resolution (GR), aims to replace dilapidated buildings from the 1950s and 60s with modern housing, enhancing safety, infrastructure, and quality of life for thousands of residents.
What’s Being Redeveloped?
Bandra Reclamation Colony
- Location: Adjacent to Lilavati Hospital
- Existing Area: 2,12,042 sq. m
- Buildings: 52
- Flats: 1,688 (ranging from 322 to 825 sq. ft)
- Redevelopment Output:
- Residents: 5,04,515 sq. m of built-up area
- MHADA: 1,00,190 sq. m of additional housing
Adarsh Nagar Colony, Worli
- Location: Behind Worli Fire Station on Annie Besant Road
- Existing Area: 68,034 sq. m
- Buildings: 58
- Flats: 863 (ranging from 270 to 860 sq. ft)
- Redevelopment Output:
- Residents: 89,557 sq. m of built-up area
- MHADA: 14,632 sq. m of housing stock
Key Features of the Redevelopment Plan
- A single developer will be appointed for each colony via tender.
- Redevelopment will only begin once 51% of residents provide consent.
- The developer must offer:
- Temporary accommodation or rent during construction
- A corpus fund for the society
- Basic amenities in line with regulatory norms
FSI of 4 Approved – What It Means
Both projects have received a generous FSI (Floor Space Index) of 4, a critical step in ensuring project viability. Of this:
- 1 FSI is reserved for MHADA’s new housing stock
- The rest will be used for existing residents and sale components, ensuring cross-subsidisation
Why Is This Necessary?
The original MHADA buildings were constructed between 1950 and 1960, during a time when Mumbai was rapidly urbanising. These buildings now suffer from severe structural issues and pose safety risks. Redevelopment is seen as the only viable option to provide secure, modern housing and unlock valuable urban space.
According to a senior housing department official, redevelopment projects on main roads have progressed faster than those in interior lanes. The government aims to curb fragmented approvals and encourage integrated development.
Governance & Regulation
The redevelopment projects will be governed under DCR 33(5), which specifically caters to MHADA layout redevelopments. This provision incentivizes private developers while ensuring housing supply for EWS, LIG, and MIG beneficiaries.
Important Guidelines for Existing Societies:
- Societies that have already received individual redevelopment approvals will be excluded.
- The state will not grant new standalone redevelopment permissions in these colonies.
- Existing sinking and corpus funds will be distributed among members.
- Post-redevelopment, new societies will be formed, and developers will be mandated to deposit new funds (linked to carpet area) for corpus and sinking needs. MHADA will regulate these funds.
Oversight and Monitoring
A high-powered committee will oversee the redevelopment, comprising:
- Additional Chief Secretary (Housing) – Chairperson
- MHADA CEO
- Additional Commissioner, BMC
- Joint Secretary, Housing Department
- MHADA Chief Officer – Member Secretary
Conclusion
The redevelopment of MHADA’s Bandra and Worli colonies represents a massive step forward for Mumbai’s urban planning and renewal strategy. It balances the need for modern infrastructure with the preservation of affordable housing stock. With robust government oversight, transparent tender processes, and resident participation, these projects could serve as blueprints for future redevelopments in India’s aging metropolitan zones.
