The Mumbai government has made a significant change to its construction plans for special development zones (SDZs), areas designated for redevelopment of existing high-density slums. Initially, these zones allowed for 80% construction, but the government has now revised this to 65%, allocating the remaining 35% for open spaces under the control of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). While this may seem like a step towards preserving green spaces, environmental activists are expressing deep concerns. They argue that any construction on saltpan and mangrove lands, even at a reduced capacity, could be detrimental to the city’s environmental well-being. The state urban development department recently issued a corrigendum seeking feedback on these proposed modifications to the Development Control and Promotion Regulations 2034 (DCPR 2034), the city’s master plan. This applies specifically to plots with 350 to 499 tenements per hectare. Activists have criticized the government’s move, calling it an attempt to deceive the public. They argue that SDZs, despite their new designation, are fundamentally saltpan and mangrove lands that were previously classified as no-development zones. They point to the recent Wayanad landslides as a stark reminder of the dangers of development on eco-sensitive areas. They are worried that these crucial environmental safeguards will be destroyed, leaving the city vulnerable to climate catastrophes like flooding. Activists also highlight that while the city needs more open spaces, these cannot be developed on SDZ lands, which are eco-sensitive. They believe that existing slums throughout Mumbai provide ample land for redevelopment without encroaching on these environmentally crucial areas. Architect and activist Nitin Killawala echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the government should focus on developing within existing slums instead of expanding onto sensitive lands. Meanwhile, in a separate notification for the rest of Maharashtra (excluding Mumbai), the government has proposed allowing affordable housing on industrial plots that have been converted to residential use. This proposal includes the provision of one-fourth of the built tenements to be sold as service quarters, intended for buyers’ domestic help and drivers. These quarters will be sold alongside flats in the same project. The proposal also includes plans to utilize the affordable housing segment for rehabilitating factory workers, staff, and tenants who were previously residing on the industrial plots. The remaining units will be offered to the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) for allotment. The government’s efforts to increase affordable housing options are commendable, but the environmental implications of these new policies need to be carefully considered. The potential impact on saltpan and mangrove lands in Mumbai, and the broader implications of developing on converted industrial plots in the state, require a thorough assessment to ensure a sustainable and environmentally responsible approach to development.
Mumbai Government Limits Construction on Eco-Sensitive Zones, Sparking Concerns
