Center Urgent Appeal for Approval of Redevelopment Plan for BDD Chawls in Mumbai

What was the issue you raised in the House?

I raised the issue of the redevelopment of BDD (Bombay Development Department) chawls, which consist of four complexes – Naigaon, NM Joshi road, Worli, and Sewri. These buildings, dating back to the British era, are now in a dilapidated state and in need of redevelopment. While three chawls are on Maharashtra Government land, the fourth – Sewri chawl – is on land belonging to the Port Trust under the Central government. Approval from the Centre is required to develop the Sewri chawl, but it has not been granted to date.

What is the redevelopment plan?

Currently, there are about 16 buildings with very small rooms, approximately 100 square feet in size, housing very poor residents. The state government has decided to use its own funds to redevelop the chawls and provide each eligible dweller with a 600-square foot house. Despite the state government’s initiative several years ago, the required approval from the Centre has not been granted.

Have you raised the issue with the central ministry concerned?

Yes, I have raised this issue with ministry officials on numerous occasions, including during the tenure of the previous minister, and have written to the current minister, Sarbananda Sonowal.

How will you take this issue further?

During today’s session in the House, I have urged the Prime Minister to address the matter of the Sewri chawl’s redevelopment and ensure that the necessary permission is granted promptly so that the state government can commence work. If approval is not given, I will write a letter to the Prime Minister.

Do you plan to raise the issue outside the House?

I have led a delegation to meet with the Shipping Minister, and if necessary, we will initiate a protest. However, we understand that this may label us as protestors.