Residents Oppose SRA Scheme in Juhu Koliwada

Residents Oppose SRA Scheme in Juhu Koliwada

Residents Oppose SRA Scheme in Juhu Koliwada

Local residents in Juhu Koliwada have voiced strong opposition to a Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) scheme being proposed for the area, asserting that the land is officially demarcated as Koliwada, not a slum, and thus cannot be redeveloped under slum schemes. Koliwadas, or traditional fishing villages, occupy prime sea-facing locations across Mumbai, and once designated as Koliwadas by the state government, they are protected from slum redevelopment.

Local BJP MLA Ameet Satam has raised concerns, writing to Mumbai Suburban Collector Rajendra Kshirsagar and the local police, urging them to take action against the builder attempting to push the SRA scheme. Satam emphasized that the government is drafting Special Development Control Rules (DCR) for Gaothans and Koliwadas, reinforcing that the SRA scheme cannot be implemented in such areas. He added that residents prefer self-development and are against any external SRA plans.

Developer’s Actions Under Scrutiny

Satam highlighted that the developer has been misleading and threatening residents to gain approval for the SRA project. "A fake biometric survey has been conducted, and some locals were reportedly forced to sign undertakings," Satam revealed, noting that this has created an atmosphere of fear among the community.

In response to these concerns, Satam recently held a meeting with locals to discuss the issues, leading to a formal request for an FIR against the developer and associates involved in the irregularities. "I stand with the locals and will ensure no injustice is done," Satam stated.

Historical Significance of Koliwadas

Juhu Koliwada, like many others, is a historic fishing village, home to Mumbai's original settlers—the Kolis, Agris, and Bhandaris. These villages are located on the seafront and boast a rich history dating back centuries. While SRA projects are already underway in Koliwadas like Sewri, Sion, Worli, and Deonar, they have faced opposition from the Koli community, which seeks to preserve the cultural and historical significance of these areas.

In 2017, officials had proposed the creation of Special DCR to facilitate redevelopment in Gaothans and Koliwadas, but the community remains apprehensive about any projects that could disrupt their heritage and livelihoods.

Conclusion

The opposition to the SRA scheme in Juhu Koliwada underscores the tension between development and the preservation of Mumbai’s cultural heritage. As local residents push for self-development and protection of their traditional land, the outcome of this dispute will be crucial for the future of Koliwadas across the city.
About the author
Sandeep Sadh

About Sandeep Sadh

Sandeep Sadh has been in the real estate business since 1993 in Mumbai. He has expertise in Buying, Selling, Leasing properties in Mumbai and a deep understanding of legal and tax related matters due to his experience.

Summary

Over the years, he has experienced the City's growth. He has been a columnist in the Times of India with numerous articles, which bring about a clear picture of the real estate market in Mumbai. He is a regular on NDTV, CNBC, ET Now Real Estate and Zee News, giving his experienced quotes as and when required.

Sandeep Sadh has used information and technology since the year 1998 and now what people call it Prop Tech to cater to the needs of Home Buyer, Seller, Investor and Corporates, HNI and NRI looking to Buy/Sell or Lease their properties in the Mumbai Property Market.

Sandeep has a holistic experience of real estate be it Leasing an Apartment for your CEO in the most upmarket buildings, to enter into a long lease for your office in Mumbai in prime buildings or an Investment in good projects with a detailed analysis keeping in mind the Demand and Supply and other micro factors of the project/property.

Sandeep Sadh has developed a few websites like www.mumbaipropertyexchange.com, www.realestatemumbai.com, www.propi.in which augment the real estate consulting business.

Right from Investments in Primary Markets to Selling, leasing and specializing for NRI’s all over the world. He is an expert in NRI Home Buying and Selling and has a good understanding of the Income Tax laws pertaining to Selling a Property and Repatriating funds overseas or reinvesting based on Capital Gains etc.

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While transacting in the above segments, he has complete experience and deep understanding of the paper work, his areas of expertise are :

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