The Maharashtra government has initiated a review on whether first-floor slum dwellers in Mumbai should be included under affordable housing and slum rehabilitation schemes. Currently, only ground-floor residents in notified slum structures are eligible for free homes under the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) or central schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). This long-standing policy gap has led to repeated demands from residents and local representatives for broader inclusion.
The proposal gained momentum after a formal request was submitted by a former corporator, highlighting the need to extend eligibility to those living on the first floor of chawls and slum-type structures. Many of these families have been residing in these units for decades but remain outside current rehabilitation benefits.
In response, the state housing department has asked the SRA to submit a detailed report on the number of first-floor residents who could qualify and the potential financial impact of including them. The finance department has also requested clarity on cost implications, especially if developers are to be offered concessions for constructing additional housing units.
Officials have indicated that the government will review SRA’s findings before moving the proposal forward. Once the report is submitted, the matter may be placed before the state cabinet for consideration. If approved, a government resolution could be issued to formally grant eligibility to first-floor slum dwellers.
The move is seen as a significant step in Mumbai’s housing policy discussions. Expanding eligibility could provide relief to thousands of families who currently do not qualify despite living in legal dwellings within notified slum areas. It would also align with the state’s broader push toward inclusive redevelopment and the long-term goal of improving living conditions for economically weaker communities.
However, the government appears cautious about the financial responsibilities associated with expanding benefits. The final decision is expected to balance both social impact and fiscal feasibility.
For now, the state awaits SRA’s assessment, which will determine the next course of action and whether first-floor slum dwellers will finally enter the ambit of affordable housing and rehabilitation schemes.
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