Maharashtra Unveils Forward-Thinking Housing Policy to Address Future Needs of Elderly Citizens

Draft Policy Addresses Growing Senior Citizen Population

In response to projections that Maharashtra’s elderly population will reach 17% by 2036, the state housing department has released a draft policy to address the housing needs of senior citizens. The policy outlines clear definitions related to senior citizen housing and introduces specific planning and building regulations within the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations.

These regulations will apply throughout Maharashtra, with the exception of Mumbai.

Inclusive Design Measures Proposed for Elderly Housing

The draft policy suggests several measures to create more inclusive housing for seniors. These include mandatory lifts in buildings with more than one floor, designs that enable easy wheelchair movement, and features like sliding windows and doorknobs with smooth edges to enhance safety and accessibility.

Pilot Project and Redevelopment Initiatives

A pilot housing project is also proposed, where tenements will be allocated to senior citizen households falling under a specific income category. The selected site for this project will be strategically located near public transportation and medical facilities or hospitals to ensure accessibility and convenience. Additionally, the policy allows for the redevelopment of old age homes through public-private partnerships, aiming to modernize and expand housing options for the elderly.