After initially receiving no response from developers, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), appointed as the nodal agency for the project, had re-invited bidders; and this time, three developers have put forth their bids
State's ambitious plan is to redevelop the 207-odd buildings of BDD Chawls. File pic
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The sun finally seems to be shining on Worli's BDD Chawls' redevelopment project.
After initially receiving no response from developers, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), appointed as the nodal agency for the project, had re-invited bidders; and this time, three developers have put forth their bids.
One more aspect of relief for MHADA is the bare minimum resistance towards the project from residents of Worli, as opposed to the same from Naigaum residents.
The state's Rs 16,000-crore plan is to redevelop around 207 buildings of BDD Chawls. These are spread across 32 and 42 acres in Lower Parel and Naigaum (Dadar), respectively, besides the 59-odd acres in Worli (121 buildings).
Currently, the residents live in 160 sqft houses; the government has promised to give them 500 sqft dwellings after the redevelopment.
A MHADA official said, "Two contractors have been appointed for Lower Parel and Naigaum. Of the three bids, two are consortiums of an international firm with India-based companies. The financial bid opening is yet to be completed; it will be done soon, after which the lowest bidder will be awarded the tender."
After rehabilitating the tenants, the redevelopment project is also expected to create a housing stock of about 16,000 flats, which are likely to be put up for sale under the 'affordable housing' category.
MHADA official of Mumbai Board, Subhash Lakhe, remained unavailable for comment despite attempts.
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