Maharashtra Government Announces Affordable Rental Housing For Students And Workers: Housing For All Policy On The Horizon

The proposed "Housing for All" policy aligns with Maharashtra’s broader goals of sustainable urban development and affordable living

By
Rajkaran Bureau
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0
eknath

In a landmark move, the Maharashtra government on Friday announced an affordable rental housing scheme targeting students and workers, signaling a major step towards addressing the housing needs of vulnerable populations. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who also oversees the housing and urban development department, directed officials to draft a comprehensive “Housing for All” policy within a month to ensure durable, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions.

Key Announcements:

  1. Affordable Rental Housing for Students and Workers:
    The scheme aims to provide accessible and economical housing options for students and workers across the state.
  2. One Lakh Houses for Mill Workers:
    The state government plans to construct one lakh houses for former mill workers. The tender process for this initiative has already been completed. Shinde also suggested exploring the possibility of allocating homes in the native villages of mill workers who have relocated.
  3. Cluster Redevelopment in Mumbai:
    Shinde emphasized the launch of cluster redevelopment projects in Mumbai, which he said would generate a substantial number of new housing units and revitalize stalled redevelopment projects.
  4. Special Housing Policy for Senior Citizens:
    Maharashtra is poised to become the first state in India to introduce a dedicated housing policy for senior citizens, catering to their unique requirements.

Redevelopment Projects Under Review:

Shinde reviewed the progress of several key redevelopment projects, including:

  • The BDD Chawl Redevelopment Project.
  • The Patrachawl Redevelopment Project.
  • Redevelopment initiatives in Kamathipura under MHADA.
  • Redevelopment efforts in GTB Nagar.
  • Housing projects under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).

Addressing Stalled Projects:

Shinde directed officials to resolve bottlenecks in delayed housing projects in Mumbai. He stated, “Clearing impediments in stalled redevelopment projects is crucial to ensuring housing availability and urban renewal in the city.”

Significance of the Policy:

The proposed “Housing for All” policy aligns with Maharashtra’s broader goals of sustainable urban development and affordable living. It reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the housing challenges faced by diverse groups, including students, workers, mill workers, and senior citizens.