Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, May 8: The Bombay High Court on Friday directed the Maharashtra government to constitute an expert panel within four weeks to conduct a performance audit of the Maharashtra Slum Areas (Improvement, Clearance and Redevelopment) Act.

A bench comprising Justices G S Kulkarni and Advait Sethna observed that the Act needs to be made more effective to help achieve the “distant dream” of a slum-free Mumbai and other cities in the state.

The order was passed in a suo motu petition initiated by the High Court following directions from the Supreme Court of India to review the functioning and implementation of the Act.

While pronouncing the verdict, the court said several issues concerning the implementation of the legislation require serious consideration by authorities.

The bench observed that the ideal principles of town planning appear to have taken a backseat, particularly in relation to public lands.

The court directed that the expert committee should comprise adequate members capable of carrying out a comprehensive performance audit to improve the effectiveness of the law and support the government’s efforts toward making Mumbai and other major cities slum-free.

The High Court noted that the continued existence of vast slum areas reflected the “abysmal progress” of urban planning ideals expected from an international city like Mumbai.

“Any town planning which does not sail with the times is questionable,” the court observed.

Despite repeated efforts, authorities have failed to eliminate slums in Mumbai, the bench said, while stressing the need for a systematic, scientific and area-wise redevelopment approach.

Describing the task as “herculean”, the court nevertheless said it was not impossible if authorities demonstrated determination and a genuine commitment to public welfare in a rapidly developing 21st century city.