Mumbai Redevelopment Yet To Pick Up Pace Despite Policy Reforms As Experts Demand Transparency, Builder Accountability

Mumbai's redevelopment efforts are struggling to gain momentum despite policy reforms, according to experts. While reforms have aimed to streamline approvals, simplify self-redevelopment, and make projects more financially viable, the pace of redevelopment has remained sluggish. The primary reasons for this slow progress include governance failures, lack of transparency, and accountability issues among developers.

Ramesh Prabhu, Chairman of Maharashtra Societies Welfare Association, pointed out that despite the three-decade history of redevelopment, disputes continue to be a common outcome. He emphasized the need for a registrar's presence in meetings, along with accountability, transparency, and a system to monitor and take corrective actions.

Housing expert advocate Vinod Sampat echoed these sentiments, highlighting the lack of transparency in redevelopment matters and the need for accountability from builders taking up redevelopment projects. He suggested that housing federations should file writ petitions and insist on transparency and accountability from builders.

Experts also noted that redevelopment can only succeed when every member can see, question, and verify each decision. Transparency is crucial for building trust, and without it, redevelopment efforts are likely to fail. With Mumbai's aging housing inventory, redevelopment is poised to play a critical role in rejuvenating urban neighborhoods and creating safer, more sustainable cities.

However, effective implementation of recent reforms will be crucial to achieving their intended outcomes.