Mumbai's Vision for a Slum-Free City: High Court Raises Concerns

The Bombay High Court emphasized the urgent need for Mumbai to become a slum-free city, expressing concerns about the conditions faced by slum dwellers. The court called for strict implementation of the Maharashtra Slum Area (Improvement, Clearance and Redevelopment) Act to ensure sustainable, high-quality development and suggested new housing policies for migrant workers.

The Bombay High Court has called for a transformative vision to make Mumbai a slum-free city, expressing grave concerns about the conditions faced by slum dwellers who have become victims at the hands of private developers.

A division bench comprising Justices G S Kulkarni and Somasekhar Sunderesan emphasized the necessity for the rigorous implementation of the Maharashtra Slum Area (Improvement, Clearance and Redevelopment) Act for achieving this vision. The judges underscored the responsibility of the government in enforcing the Act's provisions effectively.

The bench has been established to perform a 'performance audit' of the Act, following the Supreme Court's directives in July. It highlighted the need for sustainable development and questioned the future urban landscape, advocating for large open spaces as seen in international cities like London. Concerns were raised over delays in slum redevelopment projects and the pressing need for accountability and quality in these projects.