MHADA Prepares for Large-Scale Redevelopment of 13,000 Cessed Buildings in South Mumbai

Mumbai: The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has initiated plans to redevelop approximately 13,000 cessed buildings in Mumbai, particularly in the high-value real estate zones of South Mumbai. As part of this initiative, the housing authority has scheduled a structural audit of 1,000 cessed buildings by the end of March, aligning with the Maharashtra government's 100-day action plan.

Understanding Cessed Buildings and Their Redevelopment Need

Cessed buildings in Mumbai are old, rent-controlled properties constructed before 1969, predominantly located in South and Central Mumbai. These properties fall under a taxation framework where a cess is levied for their repair and maintenance, managed by MHADA. Many of these structures are now in a deteriorated state, making their redevelopment a priority.

MHADA Accelerates Redevelopment Plans

MHADA’s Vice President and Chief Executive, Sanjeev Jaiswal, reportedly instructed officials to expedite the audit process to ensure timely completion. During a recent review meeting assessing ongoing projects under the Mumbai Building Repairs and Reconstruction Board, Jaiswal emphasized the necessity of structural audits for evaluating safety and redevelopment requirements. He directed officials to engage structural consultants and commence planning for the audit of all 13,000 cessed buildings within the next year.

Historical Context and Structural Audit Significance

According to sources, MHADA officials highlighted that a structural audit is a prerequisite for acquiring any property. In 1955-56, Mumbai had around 19,500 cessed buildings, of which approximately 13,000 remain pending for redevelopment. Given the aging nature of these structures, the housing authority is keen to expedite the redevelopment process to mitigate safety risks. A structured, time-bound program has been formulated to ensure maximum possible redevelopment.

Classification of Cessed Buildings

Cessed buildings are categorized based on their construction period. The first category comprises buildings erected before 1940, the second includes those built between 1940 and 1950, while the third covers properties constructed between 1951 and 1969. The cess funds collected are allocated for the repair and reconstruction of these aging buildings, many of which have reached a dilapidated state.

Development Control Regulations and Government Incentives

Under Mumbai’s Development Control & Promotion Regulations (DCPR) 2034, redevelopment of cessed buildings is permitted with incentives such as increased Floor Space Index (FSI), allowing for more extensive development. This regulatory framework encourages property owners and developers to undertake redevelopment projects while ensuring the safety and sustainability of these aging structures.

Government Action Plan and Biometric Surveys

The Maharashtra government's 100-day action plan initially targeted the structural audit of 500 buildings, of which 171 audits have been completed and reports for 32 buildings submitted. MHADA has now revised its target to double this number by the end of March.

Jaiswal reportedly instructed MHADA officials to complete a biometric survey of 20,000 commercial unit holders residing in transit camps by the same deadline. As per government directives, the survey includes 2,000 additional units. Additionally, officials have been directed to classify transit camp occupants into A, B, and C categories by March 2025, following a government resolution dated September 13, 2019.

Expediting the Redevelopment Process

MHADA's leadership has also directed executive engineers to issue notices for all 13,000 cessed buildings under the Mumbai board’s jurisdiction, ensuring that the redevelopment process for acquired properties progresses efficiently. These measures aim to enhance the management of cessed buildings, facilitate timely redevelopment, and ultimately improve the living conditions of residents.

News Disclaimer:

This article is based on publicly available information and sources familiar with the matter. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to verify details independently before drawing conclusions. The views expressed in this article do not represent official statements from MHADA or the Maharashtra government.