Pune: The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has taken significant steps toward redeveloping its aging housing colonies in Pune city.

To assess the feasibility of redevelopment and guide residents through the process, MHADA has decided to appoint a consulting firm. The tendering process for selecting the consultancy is already underway, and three companies have shown interest so far.

With approximately 30 to 35 colonies and 28,000 to 30,000 apartments, many of MHADA’s buildings in Pune are over 30 years old, some even 40. Due to the aging infrastructure, several buildings are in urgent need of redevelopment. 

However, challenges related to legal clearances, resident agreements, and infrastructure have delayed the process.

By bringing in consultants, MHADA aims to streamline the redevelopment process. The consultancy will assess the viability of redevelopment for each colony, considering factors such as road width, potential building size, and overall benefits to residents. 

They will also help the residents understand how developers will be chosen and how redevelopment can benefit them. Once the feasibility reports are prepared, further action will depend on approval from the state housing department.

In an additional boost for the redevelopment project, the state government has allowed MHADA colonies to use a Floor Space Index (FSI) of 3 under the new Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR). 

This will allow for taller and more spacious buildings to replace the current aging structures.

According to Ravindra Machhiya, a MHADA official, the groundwork is already in place, and once the state government grants approval, redevelopment efforts will progress rapidly.