Maharashtra Government Declares Cluster Redevelopment for 19 Buildings Impacted by Elphinstone Bridge Reconstruction

Image Source: The Indian Express

The state government of Maharashtra has made a major move to allay the fears of the residents impacted due to the renovation work of the 19th-century British Elphinstone Bridge. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared an action plan under Section 33 (9) of the Development Control and Promotion Regulations (DCPR) so that the dwellers of 19 buildings alongside the bridge will be provided with new residences at the same site. Following is a complete overview:

Cluster Redevelopment Plan:

The redevelopment plan intermixes plots to reinstate damaged structures on the same site, thereby ensuring the interest of residents.
Two of the buildings' residents, Laxmi Niwas and Haji Noorani, are being temporarily rehabilitated in Kurla's transit accommodation in lieu of being shifted during redevelopment.

Resistance To Relocation:

Residents opposed being relocated to Kurla due to potential disturbance to daily activities, their working life, as well as education for children.
The government has promised that the redevelopment will be done within one-and-a-half years, although residents are not convinced about timelines.

Impact on Remaining Buildings:

Although two buildings are to be demolished immediately, the remaining 17 are threatened with structural damage from construction work.
Residents have called for concurrent redevelopment and bridge construction to avoid delays and complete the work on time.

Government's Response:

The decision was taken in a top-level meeting with representatives from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), and other state departments.
The government has committed to rehabilitating the affected residents first before going ahead with the bridge reconstruction.

Future Outlook:

The cluster redevelopment scheme will ensure permanent housing for all affected residents, maintaining the cultural and social fabric of the community.
The government is ensuring a smooth transition for residents while resolving their issues through the redevelopment process.

The statement is evidence of the Maharashtra government's willingness to balance the development of infrastructure and the well-being of residents.

Sources: Hindustan Times, Mid-Day, MSN News