Author: Mahesh Rathod

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BMC Picks Raymond to Develop Worli Helipad Under PPP Model

BMC Picks Raymond to Develop Worli Helipad Under PPP Model

February 28, 2026
BMC Picks Raymond to Develop Worli Helipad Under PPP Model Mumbai: In a major infrastructure move aimed at strengthening Mumbai’s aerial connectivity and emergency response network, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has selected Raymond Ltd as its private partner to develop and operate a helipad at the Worli jetty under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The project marks a significant step in repurposing coastal infrastructure created during the city’s ambitious road development works. Raymond to Lead Development and Operations Under the agreement, Raymond will be responsible for the complete redevelopment of the existing Worli jetty structure into a fully licensed helipad facility. The company will oversee construction, architectural modifications, safety enhancements, and long-term operations and maintenance of the site. Civic officials said the move aligns with the BMC’s strategy to leverage private sector expertise while ensuring steady revenue for the municipal body. Jetty to Be Upgraded as Permanent Structure The Worli jetty was originally constructed as a temporary facility to support the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s coastal road works. As part of the helipad project, the structure will now be converted into a permanent installation. Significant structural changes are planned, including reinforced construction, dedicated ramp access, and enhanced safety systems. All upgrades will be carried out in compliance with norms prescribed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which regulates civil aviation operations in India. Officials confirmed that aviation safety standards, emergency response readiness, and operational efficiency will be central to the redesign. Operational Timeline The helipad is expected to become operational within the next two years, subject to statutory and aviation regulatory approvals. Once completed, Raymond will manage day-to-day functioning, maintenance, and operational logistics of the facility. Revenue Sharing Model Under the PPP framework, Raymond will share 50 percent of landing fee revenue with the BMC. Additionally, the agreement guarantees a minimum monthly payment of ₹4 lakh to the civic body, whichever amount is higher. This ensures a stable income stream for the municipal corporation while allowing the private partner operational flexibility. Strategic Importance for Mumbai The Worli helipad is expected to play a crucial role in replacing helicopter operations currently conducted at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse, which is undergoing redevelopment. Beyond VIP movement, the facility is being positioned as a vital emergency infrastructure asset. It will support air ambulance services, disaster response operations, and critical medical evacuations — especially important in a densely populated metropolis like Mumbai. Boost to Coastal Road Corridor The helipad’s location near the city’s expanding coastal road corridor adds to its strategic value. Officials believe the project complements Mumbai’s broader infrastructure push, creating an integrated transport ecosystem that includes road, sea, and air connectivity. With adequate landing space and proximity to South Mumbai’s key administrative and commercial zones, the Worli helipad is set to become an important node in the city’s evolving urban transport network.
Maharashtra Govt Orders Suspension of IAS Officer for Skipping Ministerial Meeting, Triggers Political Ripples

Maharashtra Govt Orders Suspension of IAS Officer for Skipping Ministerial Meeting, Triggers Political Ripples

February 28, 2026
Maharashtra Govt Orders Suspension of IAS Officer for Skipping Ministerial Meeting, Triggers Political Ripples Mumbai: In a rare and contentious administrative action, the Maharashtra government has initiated suspension proceedings against a senior IAS officer for failing to attend meetings convened by the state’s Environment Minister, bringing bureaucratic accountability and political authority into sharp focus. The directive was issued by Protem Speaker Dilip Lande during a discussion in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on worsening pollution levels in Chandrapur district. Lande ordered action against two senior officials of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) for repeatedly skipping official briefings called by Environment Minister Pankaja Munde. Officials Named in Suspension Order According to reports, the officials against whom action has been recommended are M. Devendra Singh, an IAS officer serving as Member Secretary of the MPCB, and Satish Padval, Joint Director of the board. The move is being widely described as unusual, as suspensions are rarely ordered solely for non-attendance at ministerial meetings. The issue surfaced when Minister Munde informed the House that senior MPCB officials had consistently failed to attend meetings aimed at addressing environmental degradation and industrial pollution in Chandrapur, one of Maharashtra’s most pollution-affected districts. “Gross Negligence,” Says Protem Speaker Taking strong exception to the officials’ absence, Lande termed it “gross negligence” and an affront to democratic accountability. He stated that elected representatives cannot be ignored by officials entrusted with implementing public policy. “The minister’s directions were not respected, and this reflects a serious lapse in duty towards the people of Maharashtra,” Lande said while ordering disciplinary action. Political Undercurrents Emerge The decision has also acquired political significance due to the power dynamics involved. The MPCB is chaired by Siddhesh Kadam, who belongs to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, while the Environment Department is under BJP control. Kadam is the son of senior Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam and the brother of Minister of State Yogesh Kadam. Adding pressure, BJP MLA Sudhir Mungantiwar has moved a breach of privilege motion against the MPCB for allegedly defying ministerial instructions. Final Decision with Chief Minister The suspension proposal has been forwarded to Devendra Fadnavis, who is expected to take the final call. Defending his action, Lande asserted that authority of the Chair must be respected regardless of whether the Speaker is permanent or protem. “It does not matter that I was the protem speaker. I was presiding over the House, and action was necessary when ministerial directions were ignored,” he said. As the file awaits the Chief Minister’s decision, the episode has sparked debate across administrative and political circles, raising broader questions about bureaucratic discipline, ministerial authority and the balance of power within Maharashtra’s coalition government.  
Supreme Court Reprimands Advocate Over FIR Plea Against PM, HM on CAA; Keeps ₹50,000 Cost Order in Abeyance

Supreme Court Reprimands Advocate Over FIR Plea Against PM, HM on CAA; Keeps ₹50,000 Cost Order in Abeyance

February 27, 2026
Supreme Court Reprimands Advocate Over FIR Plea Against PM, HM on CAA; Keeps ₹50,000 Cost Order in Abeyance CJl Surya Kant and Justice Joynalya Bagchi Undercover Editor News Channel, February 27, 2026 New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on Thursday strongly pulled up a practicing advocate for seeking registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and others over the enactment of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 (CAA). While expressing sharp disapproval of the plea, the Court, however, kept on hold a ₹50,000 cost imposed earlier by the Rajasthan High Court after the advocate expressed remorse and gave an undertaking not to pursue such proceedings in the future. A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi was hearing the advocate’s appeal challenging the High Court’s order, which had dismissed his petition as frivolous and an abuse of judicial process. At the outset, the Chief Justice made pointed remarks questioning the conduct of the petitioner, observing that such petitions undermine public trust in the legal profession. He questioned how a lawyer with decades of experience at the Bar could pursue such legally untenable proceedings. Justice Bagchi, meanwhile, underlined that ideological or political disagreement with legislation cannot be transformed into criminal allegations against constitutional authorities. “For argument’s sake, if Parliament passes an illegal law, is it a crime?” the Bench observed, cautioning the petitioner that persisting with such arguments could invite even harsher consequences. Faced with the Court’s strong observations, the advocate acknowledged his mistake and stated that he did not wish to pursue the matter further. He also assured the Court that he would not file any complaint, petition, or application in relation to the 2020 complaint addressed to the Station House Officer in Alwar. Recording the undertaking, the Bench ordered that the Rajasthan High Court’s direction imposing ₹50,000 in costs would remain in abeyance indefinitely. However, the Court clarified that the cost order would automatically revive if the advocate breached his undertaking, directly or indirectly, in the future. The ruling sends a clear message that while dissent and debate are integral to democracy, criminalising legislative actions through unfounded legal proceedings amounts to misuse of the judicial process.
Congress Criticises PM Modi’s Knesset Address, Says Speech ‘Diminished India’s Moral Standing’

Congress Criticises PM Modi’s Knesset Address, Says Speech ‘Diminished India’s Moral Standing’

February 26, 2026
ACongress Criticises PM Modi’s Knesset Address, Says Speech ‘Diminished India’s Moral Standing’ Opposition Cites Nehru’s 1947 Letter to Einstein on Israel-Palestine Issue New Delhi: The Indian National Congress on Thursday sharply criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his recent address to the Knesset, describing the speech as an “unabashed defence” of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and alleging that it had “diminished India’s moral standing” on the global stage. Addressing the Israeli Parliament on February 25, Mr. Modi expressed solidarity with Israel and strongly condemned terrorism, referring to the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas. He stated that “terrorism anywhere threatens peace everywhere” and conveyed condolences on behalf of the Indian people for lives lost in the attack. The Prime Minister emphasised that no cause can justify the killing of civilians and reiterated India’s firm stand against terrorism. Congress Response Reacting to the speech, Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh said the Prime Minister’s remarks marked a departure from India’s historically balanced approach to the Israel-Palestine issue. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Mr. Ramesh recalled that India recognised Israel on the day Mr. Modi was born but argued that India’s foreign policy legacy was rooted in a more nuanced position. He cited a July 11, 1947 letter written by India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in response to a communication from renowned physicist Albert Einstein regarding the creation of Israel. Quoting from Nehru’s letter, Mr. Ramesh highlighted that while Nehru expressed sympathy for Jewish aspirations, he also acknowledged the concerns of Arab populations and emphasised the need for a just and mutually agreeable solution. Nehru had written that the issue had become “one of high emotion and deep passion on both sides” and warned that approaches compelling one side against its will would only prolong conflict. Historical Context Raised Mr. Ramesh also noted that Nehru and Einstein later met in Princeton in 1949 and exchanged correspondence on global peace and nuclear disarmament in the years that followed. He argued that India’s traditional foreign policy stance was guided by principles of non-alignment, dialogue, and balanced engagement. In a separate post, the Congress leader referred to criticism of the Prime Minister’s speech by Israeli human rights lawyer Eitay Mack, who reportedly questioned the tone and implications of the address. Political Debate Over Foreign Policy The BJP has not formally responded to the Congress criticism at the time of publication. Political observers note that India’s relationship with Israel has significantly expanded over the past decade, particularly in defence, agriculture, and technology cooperation. India has historically supported a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict while also strengthening strategic ties with Israel. The latest exchange underscores the continuing domestic political debate over the direction and tone of India’s foreign policy engagements.
Advocate Asif Patel Secures Acquittal of Fourth Accused as Mumbai Court Frees Four in 2019 Gang Rape Case

Advocate Asif Patel Secures Acquittal of Fourth Accused as Mumbai Court Frees Four in 2019 Gang Rape Case

February 25, 2026
Advocate Asif Patel Secures Acquittal of Fourth Accused as Mumbai Court Frees Four in 2019 Gang Rape Case Advocate Asif Patel Court Cites Broken Chain of Evidence, Procedural Lapses and Lack of Reliable Proof Mumbai: In a significant judgment, a Mumbai sessions court has acquitted four men accused in the 2019 gang rape case of a mentally challenged woman, citing serious shortcomings in the prosecution’s case. One of the key accused was defended by Advocate Asif Patel, who successfully argued that the evidence placed on record was unreliable and procedurally flawed. The court observed that the prosecution failed to establish guilt beyond reasonable doubt, pointing to lapses in forensic handling, inconsistencies in witness statements and violations of mandatory safeguards required in cases involving survivors with intellectual disabilities. Advocate Asif Patel’s Defence Highlighted by Court The fourth accused, represented by Advocate Asif Patel, was acquitted after the court accepted the defence’s submission that the investigation suffered from a “broken chain of custody” of forensic evidence. The defence also raised serious concerns about possible contamination and manipulation of samples, which the prosecution failed to satisfactorily rebut. The court took note of the defence argument that essential legal procedures were not followed while recording the survivor’s statement, including the absence of a special educator or interpreter, as mandated under law. Forensic and Medical Evidence Under Scrutiny While the prosecution claimed that DNA evidence matched two of the accused, the defence pointed out gaps and unexplained delays in seizure and handling of samples. The court remarked that the possibility of evidence manipulation could not be ruled out. Medical evidence, the court noted, did not conclusively support the prosecution’s theory of gang rape, with the judge observing that the case was built on what was described as “unreliable evidence” and “serious investigative lapses.” Missing Witness and Inconsistencies Weaken Case The prosecution’s inability to examine a crucial witness further weakened its case. The court also noted inconsistencies regarding the survivor’s movements before and after the alleged incident, which raised doubts about the prosecution’s narrative. Court Acknowledges Gravity but Upholds Legal Standards While acquitting the accused, the court made it clear that the seriousness of the allegations was not being undermined. However, it reiterated that conviction in criminal cases must rest on credible, consistent and legally obtained evidence. Legal Significance Legal observers say the verdict highlights the critical role of effective defence advocacy and reinforces the principle that investigative agencies must strictly adhere to legal procedures, especially in cases involving vulnerable individuals. Authorities have not yet announced whether an appeal against the acquittal will be filed.
Four Arrested for Posing as Lawrence Bishnoi Gang Members, Demanding ₹30 Lakh from Mumbai Jeweller

Four Arrested for Posing as Lawrence Bishnoi Gang Members, Demanding ₹30 Lakh from Mumbai Jeweller

February 25, 2026
Four Arrested for Posing as Lawrence Bishnoi Gang Members, Demanding ₹30 Lakh from Mumbai Jeweller Mumbai | Undercover Editor News Channel, February 25, 2026 Mumbai: In a swift and coordinated operation, Mumbai Police arrested four men for allegedly posing as members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and attempting to extort ₹30 lakh from a Borivali-based jeweller through threatening calls and messages. Police have confirmed that the accused have no connection with the actual Bishnoi gang. The accused — Riyazuddin Bashir (29), Mohammad Fayaz Mansuri (27), Mohammad Ashraful (36), and Mohammad Arbaz Ansari (27) — are residents of Wasseypur in Jharkhand. They were apprehended late Tuesday night from different locations in Mahim, Bandra and Jogeshwari after police laid a trap to catch them red-handed. Threats Referenced High-Profile Killing According to investigators, the jewellery store first received a threatening message from an international number on February 18, demanding ₹30 lakh as “firauti” (ransom) in the name of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The message warned that failure to pay would result in the jeweller meeting “the same fate as Baba Siddique,” referencing a recent high-profile killing. The following day, the store received WhatsApp calls from another international number. The caller allegedly dared staff members to record the conversation while reiterating death threats and claiming that no one in Borivali would be able to save them. When the calls went unanswered later, fresh messages warned that the jeweller and his family would soon be gunned down. Initially, the threats were not taken seriously. However, when new messages arrived on February 21 in the early hours of the morning, the store staff engaged with the caller, negotiating the amount and requesting bank details. Acting on the jeweller’s instructions, a police complaint was subsequently lodged. Police Laid Trap Mumbai Police devised a plan, asking the jeweller to pretend he was willing to pay in gold coins. When the accused arrived to collect the supposed payment, they were apprehended. Investigators later revealed that the suspects had been involved in similar extortion and threat cases registered in Vile Parle and DN Nagar, which have now been solved following their arrest. Officials said the accused used internet-based international numbers to mask their identities and create panic by invoking the name of a notorious criminal syndicate. Investigation Underway Police are now probing whether the group is linked to a larger extortion racket targeting businessmen by exploiting fear associated with organised crime networks. Digital evidence, including call records and financial trails, is being examined. Authorities have urged business owners not to ignore threat messages and to immediately inform police, assuring swift action against such criminal intimidation attempts. Further investigation is underway.
Mumbai Footpaths Cleared as BMC Intensifies Anti-Encroachment Drive; Commissioner Conducts Surprise Inspection in Dadar

Mumbai Footpaths Cleared as BMC Intensifies Anti-Encroachment Drive; Commissioner Conducts Surprise Inspection in Dadar

February 24, 2026
Mumbai Footpaths Cleared as BMC Intensifies Anti-Encroachment Drive; Commissioner Conducts Surprise Inspection in Dadar Mumbai | Undercover Editor News Channel, February 24, 2026 Mumbai: In a renewed push to restore pedestrian rights and ease chronic traffic congestion, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has intensified its drive against unauthorised hawkers and illegal encroachments across the city. As part of the ongoing enforcement action, Bhushan Gagrani, Commissioner of the BMC, conducted a surprise inspection in Dadar and surrounding areas on Monday. The inspection covered multiple civic jurisdictions, including F South Ward, F North Ward and G North Ward, which have historically faced heavy congestion due to illegal hawking and encroachments on footpaths and roads. On-Ground Review of Enforcement During the surprise visit, Commissioner Gagrani personally reviewed the progress of eviction operations and inspected several previously congested stretches. Civic officials briefed him on recent actions undertaken to remove unauthorised stalls, roadside vendors and temporary structures that had been obstructing pedestrian movement and vehicular traffic. The Commissioner also interacted directly with local residents, shopkeepers and traders. Many citizens welcomed the crackdown, noting that cleared footpaths have significantly improved walkability and reduced traffic snarls in the area. Pedestrians, especially senior citizens and schoolchildren, expressed relief at being able to walk safely without being forced onto busy roads. Some traders, while acknowledging the importance of maintaining public order, raised concerns regarding long-term policy clarity and possible rehabilitation mechanisms for affected hawkers. Restoring Civic Discipline Senior civic officials reiterated that the drive is being conducted strictly in line with court directives and is aimed at restoring civic discipline rather than penalising livelihoods. The focus, they said, is on ensuring unobstructed footpaths, smoother traffic flow and the protection of public spaces meant for common use. Commissioner Gagrani appealed to citizens to cooperate with the civic administration and support lawful measures to keep public spaces free from encroachments. He stressed that strict action against illegal constructions and unauthorised hawking would continue across Mumbai wherever violations are found. Senior Officials Accompany Commissioner Deputy Municipal Commissioners Prashant Sapkale and Vinayak Vispute, along with assistant commissioners, engineers and ward-level officers, accompanied the Commissioner during the inspection. Officials confirmed that follow-up inspections will be conducted to ensure that cleared areas remain free from re-encroachment. The renewed enforcement drive signals the BMC’s intent to sustain momentum in reclaiming public spaces, even as it seeks to balance the concerns of small traders with the larger public interest in one of India’s most densely populated metropolitan cities.
Board Exams Begin Amid Rising Heat in Mumbai; Doctors Urge Students to Take Extra Health Precautions

Board Exams Begin Amid Rising Heat in Mumbai; Doctors Urge Students to Take Extra Health Precautions

February 23, 2026
Board Exams Begin Amid Rising Heat in Mumbai; Doctors Urge Students to Take Extra Health Precautions Mumbai: As the Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations begin across Maharashtra, students in Mumbai are grappling with an additional challenge — an early and intense rise in temperatures. With summer setting in sooner than expected, doctors are raising concerns over the health risks faced by students travelling to examination centres during peak daytime heat. Medical professionals across the city have reported a noticeable increase in cases of dehydration, heat exhaustion, headaches, dizziness, vomiting, and gastrointestinal infections over the past week. Experts say long commuting hours, overcrowded public transport, exam-related stress, and inadequate food and fluid intake are significantly worsening the situation for adolescents appearing for crucial examinations. Dr Jinendra Jain, Internal Medicine Expert at Wockhardt Hospitals, warned that dehydration is emerging as a major concern during the ongoing heatwave. “During extreme heat, the body loses fluids rapidly. Many students skip meals due to exam anxiety, which further increases the risk of dehydration. This can lead to fatigue, poor concentration, dizziness and even heat exhaustion. Students must stay well hydrated and avoid stepping out on an empty stomach,” he said. Echoing similar concerns, Dr Chirag Shah, Physician and Internal Medicine Expert from Apex Group of Hospitals, said hospitals are witnessing a spike in heat-related ailments among young patients. “We are seeing more cases of viral fever, stomach infections and dehydration. Students should strictly avoid outside junk food, maintain personal hygiene and ensure adequate sleep. Parents should watch out for warning signs such as persistent headaches, nausea, muscle cramps or unusual tiredness,” he advised. Dr Shah further explained that even mild dehydration can significantly impact cognitive function. “Lack of adequate fluids affects concentration, memory and exam performance. Students should sip water regularly, even if they don’t feel thirsty,” he added. Health experts recommend that students carry water bottles to examination centres wherever permitted. Oral rehydration solutions, coconut water and homemade lemon water are advised to maintain electrolyte balance. Wearing loose, light-coloured cotton clothing and using umbrellas or caps while travelling can help reduce heat exposure. Doctors have also urged schools and examination centres to ensure proper ventilation, availability of drinking water and shaded waiting areas to protect students from extreme heat conditions. With board examinations being a critical milestone in students’ academic journeys, medical professionals stress that health must remain a top priority. Adequate hydration, balanced nutrition and sufficient rest can play a vital role in preventing heat-related illnesses and helping students remain focused and safe throughout the examination period. Citizens are advised to seek prompt medical consultation if symptoms persist or worsen.
College Dropout Arrested for Hiding Live Cartridges in IIT Powai Hostel Student’s Bag

College Dropout Arrested for Hiding Live Cartridges in IIT Powai Hostel Student’s Bag

February 22, 2026
College Dropout Arrested for Hiding Live Cartridges in IIT Powai Hostel Student’s Bag Mumbai | Crime & Education Desk In a serious security breach inside one of India’s premier educational institutions, Powai police have arrested a 23-year-old college dropout for allegedly hiding live ammunition in the bag of a first-year engineering student at IIT Bombay’s Powai campus. The accused, identified as Anand Chaudhary, was apprehended on February 19 from within the IIT hostel premises after security officials recovered five 7.65 mm live cartridges from a student’s bag during a routine inspection. Chaudhary has been booked under provisions of the Arms Act and remanded to judicial custody while police continue to investigate the motive behind the act. How the Incident Came to Light According to police officials, the ammunition was discovered during a security check carried out after a scuffle broke out between two hostel residents. Security personnel, responding to complaints of alcohol consumption—strictly prohibited within hostel premises—conducted room inspections. During the search of one hostel room, officials found five live cartridges concealed inside a black travel bag. Subsequent questioning revealed that the bag belonged to Apoorva Mishra, a first-year BTech student, who told authorities that the cartridges had been placed there by his childhood friend, Anand Chaudhary. Accused Caught Inside Campus Police said Chaudhary, who had arrived in Mumbai on February 12, was staying in the hostel as a guest. He was caught when he returned to the campus on February 19 to meet Mishra. IIT security detained him and later handed him over to Powai Police for further investigation. Investigators stated that no firearm was recovered from the campus. However, the presence of live ammunition triggered immediate security concerns, prompting swift police action. Police Probe Underway During preliminary questioning, Mishra reportedly admitted he was aware of the cartridges but did not perceive them as a serious threat, allegedly citing familiarity with firearms in his hometown. Police have clarified that such explanations do not mitigate the seriousness of the offence, especially within a high-security educational campus. Officials are now probing how Chaudhary procured the ammunition, whether it was legally owned, and what his intent was in bringing live cartridges into the hostel. Institute Responds In an official statement, IIT Bombay confirmed that the ammunition was brought onto campus by a visitor and not by a student. The institute said it conducted an internal inquiry before handing the matter over to the police and assured that disciplinary action would be taken in accordance with institutional rules. Legal Action An FIR has been registered under the Arms Act. Chaudhary was produced before a magistrate and remanded to custody. The students involved were questioned and released. Further investigation is ongoing. Authorities have reiterated that any breach involving weapons or ammunition on educational campuses will be dealt with strictly, citing concerns over student safety and campus security.
Dharavi Redevelopment Gets Major Push as Maharashtra Govt Hands Over 118 Acres in Malad

Dharavi Redevelopment Gets Major Push as Maharashtra Govt Hands Over 118 Acres in Malad

February 21, 2026
Dharavi Redevelopment Gets Major Push as Maharashtra Govt Hands Over 118 Acres in Malad Mumbai | Breaking Development In a major boost to the ambitious Dharavi Redevelopment Project, the Government of Maharashtra has handed over possession of 118 acres of land in Malad–Malvani to the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) for the rehabilitation of Dharavi residents. The land parcel, located at Mukteshwar in Malad, will be used to resettle residents who are not eligible for in-situ rehabilitation within Dharavi. Confirming the development, Mumbai Suburban District Collector Saurabh Katiyar said the land has been formally transferred to the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP). Sources revealed that while 140 acres were originally earmarked at Mukteshwar, 22 acres remain under litigation, and the remaining 118 acres have now been cleared for immediate use. The redevelopment project is being executed by Adani Group through its special purpose vehicle Navbharat Mega Developers Pvt Ltd (NMDPL), a joint venture in which the Maharashtra government also holds a stake. While ownership of the land will remain with the SRA, NMDPL will hold development rights. The land is estimated to be worth around ₹540 crore, against which NMDPL has already paid ₹135 crore as a development premium. According to officials, the Malad site will rehabilitate residents living on upper floors and those who settled in Dharavi between January 1, 2011, and November 15, 2022—categories not eligible for on-site housing within Dharavi. A portion of the land will also be used for constructing sale-component housing that will be offered in the open market. As part of the larger plan, the state government has identified nearly 540 acres across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region—including land in Kurla, Kanjur, Bhandup, Mulund, and parts of the Deonar dumping ground—to facilitate large-scale rehabilitation. The project aims to construct 1.25 to 1.5 lakh new homes, benefitting nearly 10 lakh Dharavi residents. Under Maharashtra’s Slum Rehabilitation Act, every eligible resident will receive a 350 sq. ft. rehabilitation unit, larger than the standard 300 sq. ft. units offered in other projects. Residents found ineligible for permanent housing within Dharavi will be relocated to rental housing complexes outside the area under a hire-purchase model. Awarded to the Adani Group in November 2022 with an initial investment commitment of ₹5,069 crore, the Dharavi Redevelopment Project is being described as one of the world’s largest urban rejuvenation initiatives. NMDPL has a seven-year deadline to complete rehabilitation housing, while the state has set an overall 17-year timeline to fully transform Dharavi into a modern, planned urban township.
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