The Bombay High Court on Friday underscored its vision for a slum-free Mumbai and highlighted the urgent need for the strict implementation of the Maharashtra Slum Area (Improvement, Clearance and Redevelopment) Act. During a session presided over by Justices G S Kulkarni and Somasekhar Sunderesan, the court expressed concerns about the exploitation of slum dwellers by private developers.
In response to directives from the Supreme Court last month, a special bench was established to conduct a “performance audit” of the act, emphasizing the government’s responsibility in its robust implementation. The justices pointed out that making Mumbai slum-free is crucial not only for its status as an international city and financial hub but also for the sustainable development of its urban spaces.
“Vision is to have Mumbai, which is considered an international city and the financial capital of our country, slum-free. We need to have an absolutely slum-free city. This Act will help that vision,” the bench stated.
The court raised concerns about the long-standing delays and the quality of slum redevelopment projects, criticizing the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) and other related bodies for being “silent spectators” to the plight of slum dwellers. “Merely because you are a slum dweller doesn’t mean that you are left to the discretion of developers,” the bench declared, calling for accountability and high standards in redevelopment projects.
In its deliberations, the bench also referenced global cities like London, which prioritize open spaces and sustainable urban development, suggesting that Mumbai should aim for a similar approach to avoid becoming a mere “concrete jungle.”
The court’s directive extended to the suggestion of developing a rental housing policy for migrant workers, recognizing their essential role in Mumbai’s workforce. “You (government) think Mumbai can survive without migrant workers? We can have tenements or rental housing,” the bench proposed.
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As the matter is posted for further hearing on September 20, the court’s directive has set the stage for potential transformative changes in Mumbai’s approach to slum redevelopment and urban planning, aiming for a city that offers decent living conditions for all its residents.
