Background and Purpose
The Maharashtra government is allocating salt pan land to facilitate the construction of rental houses as part of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project.
Salt Pan Lands: These ecologically important lands serve as salt marshlands, flood buffers, and habitats for diverse flora and fauna.
The government has allocated 255.9 acres of salt pan land, distributed over three parcels in Mumbai's eastern suburbs.
The allocated land was previously owned by the Central government and was transferred to the Maharashtra government after Cabinet approval.
The land will be leased to the Maharashtra government for 99 years, with a concessional rate of 25% of the prevailing rate.
Conditions and Responsibilities
The land will be provided at a concessional rate.
The State government will collect land revenue from the DRPPL and pay it to the Central government.
The DRPPL will bear the costs of resettlement and other incidental expenses.
The DRP, a government body, will handle court cases and legal matters related to the land acquisition.
The land will be used for rental housing, slum rehabilitation, and affordable housing.
Concerns and Criticisms
Urban planners and environmentalists emphasize the need for an impact assessment study before developing large areas of salt pan land.
Salt pan lands play a crucial role in preventing flooding in eastern suburbs.
Many advocate for in-situ rehabilitation of Dharavi residents to avoid the formation of ghettos.
Ecological Impact: The impact of intensive development on ecologically sensitive salt pan areas needs to be carefully studied.
Conclusion
The allocation of salt pan land for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project raises concerns about environmental impact, in-situ rehabilitation, and the potential for legal challenges.
A comprehensive assessment and transparent decision-making process are crucial to ensure sustainable and equitable development.
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