MUMBAI: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has approved a Rs 8,498 crore Slum Rehabilitation Scheme for Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar and Kamraj Nagar in Ghatkopar (East). The approval was granted during the 158th Authority meeting, chaired by Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde.
The Maharashtra govt had earlier authorised the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) to carry out such projects in collaboration with local self-governing bodies and agencies like MMRDA, MHADA, CIDCO, and others. The Ghatkopar scheme will be a joint venture between MMRDA and SRA.
Spanning 31.82 hectares, the project will benefit over 17,000 slum dwellers. The scheme, scheduled for completion within 48 months, will provide free rehabilitation units to eligible residents, along with essential infrastructure such as gardens, healthcare centres, and educational facilities.
In addition to the rehabilitation effort, MMRDA will acquire land to extend the Eastern Freeway from Chheda Nagar to Thane, creating a 31-kilometre signal-free corridor, further enhancing connectivity.
Commenting on the approval, chief minister Shinde stated, “This project reflects our govt’s commitment to improving the living standards of Mumbai’s slum dwellers while simultaneously advancing infrastructure development.”
MMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Sanjay Mukherjee added, “This scheme is not only about transforming the lives of thousands of slum residents but is also integral to our vision of building a modern, inclusive Mumbai.” The proposal was formally approved during a meeting in Nagpur on 12 December 2023. The state govt has already allocated Rs 500 crore from Shiv Shahu Punarvasan Prakalp Ltd., which will be disbursed as rental compensation to eligible dwellers.
