Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde made a strong appeal to the residents of Thane on Saturday, advocating for the city's cluster redevelopment model as a superior alternative to conventional rehabilitation schemes like the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA).
Why Cluster Redevelopment is a Game-Changer
Addressing a gathering in Thane on Saturday evening, Shinde provided a detailed comparison between the two models. He emphasized a critical advantage: the cluster scheme includes ground-floor residents, who are typically excluded under standard SRA norms. Furthermore, the model has a more inclusive cut-off, absorbing applicants registered as recently as 2022. "This directly addresses the long-standing concerns of families who were left out due to earlier cut-off dates," Shinde explained.
Bigger Homes and Better Civic Infrastructure
The Deputy CM outlined the tangible benefits for residents. Because the cluster redevelopment project allows for planning across larger contiguous areas, it enables the creation of comprehensive civic amenities. These include wider roads, more open spaces and gardens, hospitals, adequate parking facilities, and clubhouses—features that are often difficult to accommodate in typical SRA projects.
He assured that the flats provided under this scheme would not only be bigger and self-contained but would also be offered in-situ. This means residents can rebuild their lives within their existing neighbourhoods and social fabric, avoiding displacement.
A Model Designed to Overcome Limitations
"The cluster model systematically removes all the limitations associated with the SRA framework," Shinde stated. It is specifically designed to deliver good-quality, amenity-rich homes to the people. He pointed to the several ongoing multi-storey constructions in the city under this scheme as proof of the government's commitment to high-quality urban housing.
Concluding his appeal, Shinde urged citizens not to be misled by opposition forces that might attempt to derail this progressive initiative. He positioned the cluster redevelopment plan as a forward-looking solution for Thane's sustainable urban growth.
