In a significant move aimed at transforming urban landscapes, the Maharashtra government has initiated the process of granting permanent land ownership rights to thousands of families residing in slum settlements in Chandrapur. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule made this landmark announcement on Wednesday, framing it as a pivotal step towards inclusive development.
A Longstanding Demand Fulfilled
Addressing a series of election rallies across the city, Minister Bawankule credited the forceful advocacy of local MLA Kishor Jorgewar in the state assembly for bringing the issue of regularising land rights for Nazul landholders to the forefront. The minister expressed satisfaction that the government is now in a position to fulfil this commitment, which will directly impact the lives of nearly 16,000 households.
The beneficiary families are spread across 55 different slum localities in Chandrapur. Bawankule detailed that the government would undertake a comprehensive survey and mapping of all houses in these areas using advanced drone technology, with the state bearing the entire cost of this exercise.
Tangible Benefits and Development Promises
The minister outlined the concrete benefits for residents. Eligible families will receive official ownership documents, approved layout plans, and property cards completely free of charge. In a notable inclusion, he stated that even houses falling within the blue line would be regularised under this initiative.
Linking the welfare measure to the upcoming civic polls, Bawankule urged voters to support BJP candidates with a strong mandate to accelerate Chandrapur's development trajectory. He contrasted his party's actions with the Congress, alleging that the opposition lacked a clear vision and relied on empty promises.
Broader Urban Rejuvenation Plans
Beyond land rights, the minister unveiled a slate of development projects for the city. A key focus is the rejuvenation of Ramala Lake, described as the city's lifeline. Furthermore, he announced that 15,000 new houses would be constructed in Chandrapur under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).
In a boost for women's entrepreneurship, Bawankule also promised grants of ₹50 lakh each to 50 women's self-help groups (SHGs) in the region, aiming to foster economic self-reliance.
Political Backing at Rallies
The announcements were made at well-attended election meetings organised at Sapna Talkies Square, Babupeth Siddharth Nagar, and Indira Nagar. These rallies were part of the campaign for BJP candidates contesting the Chandrapur Municipal Corporation elections.
The events saw the presence of several prominent leaders, including Guardian Minister Dr. Prashant Ashok Uike, election observer Chainsukh Sancheti, election in-charge and former MP Ashok Nete, Shiv Sena district organiser Yuvraj Dhanorkar, and district BJP president Bandu Hajare, alongside numerous ward candidates.
This large-scale regularisation drive is poised to provide long-awaited security and dignity to thousands of urban poor families, marking a substantial shift in Chandrapur's approach to urban planning and housing rights.
