Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 16: Even as authorities continue to promise a “slum-free Mumbai,” the city has witnessed a sharp 68 per cent rise in encroached areas between 2011 and 2025, according to satellite-based estimates by the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA).

Despite successive governments extending eligibility cut-off dates to regularise slums—from 1995 to 2000 and later to 2011—official assurances that no new encroachments would be allowed appear to have fallen short. Enforcement agencies are said to have struggled to safeguard open spaces and mangroves, particularly along the coastal belt.

As per SRA findings, slums now occupy nearly 24 per cent of Mumbai’s land and house more than half of its population. In the 14 years since the 2011 cut-off, around 58 hectares of government land under collectors have been encroached upon, with officials indicating that the overall figure, including land owned by other agencies, could be significantly higher.

The data has been compiled using satellite imagery and GIS mapping, with inputs sourced from BISAG-N. The information has been shared with city and suburban collectorates, as well as civic authorities and other land-owning bodies.

Several key areas have reported significant encroachments. Over 8,000 square metres of mangroves behind the World Trade Centre have been occupied since 2011. In Mankhurd-Deonar, a nullah has been largely taken over, while Ganpat Nagar in Eksar and parts of Malvani have seen substantial expansion of slum settlements.

Officials noted that inner-city areas under B ward, including Masjid Bunder, Dongri and Bhendi Bazaar, have recorded comparatively lower encroachments, while suburban regions such as Kurla, Deonar, Malvani and Dahisar have seen a sharp rise.

Under existing policy, slums built before January 1, 2000, qualify for free rehabilitation housing, while those constructed between 2000 and 2011 are eligible for paid rehabilitation schemes. Structures built after 2011 are deemed illegal and subject to action.

Mumbai Suburban guardian minister Ashish Shelar acknowledged large-scale encroachments and assured strict action. He cited a recent drive in Deonar where nearly 11 acres of land were cleared, adding that such operations would continue.

Authorities have also launched the Network for Encroachment Tracking and Reporting for Mumbai (Netram), aimed at monitoring illegal constructions through satellite data every four months and enabling swift action.

However, officials pointed out that the absence of a clear post-eviction land-use plan often leads to re-encroachment. Experts have also criticised existing policies, suggesting a shift towards rental and public housing models to address the issue more effectively.

With ground verification underway and stricter monitoring mechanisms in place, the challenge of curbing Mumbai’s expanding slum footprint remains a key urban governance concern.