Maharashtra Cabinet Approves Redevelopment of Nearly 5,000 Flats in SVP Nagar, Andheri

In a major milestone for affordable housing and urban renewal in Mumbai, the Maharashtra Cabinet has granted approval for the redevelopment of 4,973 flats across 498 plots at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (SVP) Nagar in Andheri (West). Managed by the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), this redevelopment project is among the largest undertaken in Mumbai, impacting over 2,600 families residing in more than 80 cooperative housing societies.

Historical Background and Project Scope

SVP Nagar, originally allotted in 1993 under a World Bank initiative aimed at Low Income Group (LIG) and Middle Income Group (MIG) families, spans a vast area comprising 98 cooperative housing societies, 24 high-income apartment plots, 62 plots sized 60 square meters, and 245 plots of 100 square meters.

Over the years, many buildings and chawls within the colony have deteriorated substantially, necessitating comprehensive redevelopment to improve living conditions. To date, redevelopment of seven societies has been completed, while three are currently under construction and agreements finalized for another six societies.

Integrated Township-Style Redevelopment Vision

The approved redevelopment plan envisions transforming SVP Nagar into a modern township by integrating residential, recreational, educational, healthcare, and commercial spaces. Per the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) Development Control Regulations (DCR), the design includes green open spaces, schools, healthcare centers, commercial zones, playgrounds, gyms, swimming pools, auditoriums, community halls, and society offices.

This integrated approach aims to enhance residents' quality of life by providing not only spacious, modern apartments but also a suite of amenities and green building features like solar power installations, rainwater harvesting, and efficient waste management systems.

Governance and Project Oversight

To ensure efficient and timely implementation, a high-level committee chaired by the Housing Department Secretary will monitor the redevelopment's progress. This committee will draw from experience gained in prior successful projects such as Bandra Reclamation, Adarsh Nagar Worli, and Motilal Nagar.

MHADA’s Vice-President and CEO IAS Sanjeev Jaiswal highlighted that joint redevelopment will significantly increase floor space per family, foster a self-sufficient township within SVP Nagar, and uplift overall living standards by replacing dilapidated structures with state-of-the-art housing.

Social and Cultural Context

While initially designed as affordable housing for LIG and MIG families, SVP Nagar has evolved into a culturally vibrant community featuring several film production houses and a private acting school. This mix of residential and commercial use adds to the colony's unique character and underscores the necessity of thoughtful redevelopment that accommodates diverse needs.