Mumbai, March 16 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, stated on Monday that the state is dedicated to making the dream of homeownership a reality for the middle class in Mumbai. He highlighted that the redevelopment of the BDD chawls will greatly enhance the living standards of the residents.

Fadnavis made these comments at an event where he handed over 864 rehabilitation units to residents as part of the first phase of the Naigaon BDD Chawl Redevelopment Project, which is being carried out by the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA).

He urged residents to refrain from selling their newly assigned homes.

“This project faced delays for several years due to various challenges. The state government chose to take direct control of the project rather than depending on private builders, enlisting some of the best construction firms in the country to guarantee top-notch quality. The aim is to deliver keys to all residents by 2029, while also expediting other redevelopment initiatives across Mumbai,” the Chief Minister remarked.

He assured residents that infrastructure improvements in Naigaon and Worli have been made and that solutions for parking issues in Naigaon will be implemented.

Fadnavis also announced that about 900 square feet would be designated to address concerns related to the local Bhavani Mata temple.

Referencing the historical significance of the BDD chawls, which once accommodated notable figures like Anna Bhau Sathe and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the Chief Minister indicated that the government plans to publish a book chronicling their rich heritage.

Addressing police housing needs, Fadnavis mentioned he would engage with Deputy Chief Minister and Housing Minister Eknath Shinde regarding pricing matters.

He further stated that the government would revisit the 2016 ownership policy to seek a legally sound and practical solution for police housing.

“Currently, around 1,000 acres of redevelopment projects are in progress in Mumbai, being recognized as Asia’s largest urban renewal initiative. Under this scheme, residents are receiving modern 500 sq ft 2BHK flats at no cost, replacing their previous 160 sq ft accommodations,” he explained.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who oversees housing, referred to the event as a “golden day,” emphasizing that former chawl residents are transitioning into contemporary residential towers.

He stated that the government's policy is designed to ensure that the common man receives appropriate housing and facilities while maintaining the emotional and cultural ties established over generations.

Shinde also announced that MHADA will cover the property tax for BDD chawl residents for the next 12 years.

He noted that through initiatives like cluster development and slum rehabilitation programs, the government is striving to bring displaced Mumbaikars back to the city.

He added that the new housing policy involves an investment of Rs 70 crore and aims to provide eco-friendly homes for around 30 lakh individuals.

Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar remarked that after waiting for four decades, the distribution of keys to 864 beneficiaries signifies a historic milestone.

She emphasized that these homes are not just buildings of brick and mortar, but embodiments of the dreams and aspirations of the residents.

Pawar noted that the British-era chawls, established around 1920, are testaments to Mumbai’s past, but the real narrative lies in the resilience and unity of the hardworking families that resided there.

She concluded that this event marks the commencement of a new chapter filled with dignity and safety for BDD residents.