Implement Mumbai’s cluster redevelopment model nationwide: Milind Deora in RS

Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora on Thursday urged the Centre to replicate Mumbairsquos cluster redevelopment model across India describing it as a sustainable solution to the countryrsquos growing urban housing challengesSpeaking in the Rajya Sabha Deora highlighted the success of the scheme implemented under the leadership of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stating that it has transformed housing for thousands of underprivileged citizens in MumbaiCalls for National Adoption of Cluster Redevelopment ModelDeora said that the cluster redevelopment initiative undertaken by the Maharashtra Housing Department has emerged as a model of inclusive and sustainable urban development He expressed confidence that adopting this framework nationwide would help provide secure housing to millions of economically weaker citizensHe added that the scheme ensures that residents of slums and old structures are rehabilitated at the same location with improved living conditions and modern infrastructureUrbanisation Key to Indiarsquos Economic GrowthHighlighting the importance of urban development Deora noted that nearly onethird of Indiarsquos population currently resides in cities which contribute around twothirds of the countryrsquos gross domestic product This share is expected to rise further in the coming yearsHe emphasised that urbanisation presents a major opportunity for Indiarsquos economic expansion and stressed the need for policy reforms that prioritise cityled growthPush for Urban Reforms and Competitive CitiesThe Shiv Sena MP advocated for greater autonomy and efficiency in urban governance He pointed out that municipal bodies have gained more powers following constitutional reforms and should be encouraged to adopt transparent and technologydriven systemsDeora suggested that cities should compete with each other in areas such as digital governance timebound approvals and efficient service delivery He also recommended that cities implementing reforms effectively should be incentivised and recognisedAffordable Housing Central to DevelopmentEmphasising the role of housing in urban transformation Deora stated that affordable housing is a critical component of sustainable urbanisation He cited multiple redevelopment projects in Mumbai including areas like Dharavi and Bhendi Bazaar where cluster redevelopment is improving living standardsHe said the ongoing efforts under the current Maharashtra government are enabling thousands of families living in slums and old chawls to access better housing within their existing communitiesSuggests Centre Study Mumbai ModelDeora noted that the Slum Rehabilitation Authority has provided housing to approximately 25 lakh families over the years He urged the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to study Mumbairsquos cluster redevelopment model in detailAccording to him the model has the potential to significantly shape Indiarsquos urban future if implemented on a national scalelsquoModel Can Transform Housing NationwidersquoReiterating his demand Deora said that extending the scheme across the country would ensure that hardworking citizens gain access to dignified housing He added that the Maharashtra government is willing to present the model to the Centre for wider adoptionThe proposal comes amid increasing focus on urban housing and infrastructure as India continues to witness rapid urban expansion