Maha introduces changes to SRA to control corruption, delays

The Maharashtra government has introduced a slew of changes in the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) in an effort to control corruption and delays in project completion, which has plagued the authority since its inception.
Replying to a marathon discussion on a resolution moved by the opposition parties in the assembly about the urban development, housing and functioning of municipal corporations in the state, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today informed the House that over 8,561 acre of land under private slums is currently being mapped using GIS and the process to fix the ownership of the land is underway.
"We have decided to introduce a number of changes. Once removed from the project, the said developer cannot be brought back. The second developer will have to be appointed within three months with 70 per cent consent from the eligible slum dwellers. If this does not happen, the SRA will have the authority to fix the developer by issuing tenders," said Fadnavis.

Pointing out that a number of SRA projects are pending for more than 10 years in the city, Fadnavis announced that all these projects will be taken over by the SRA and e-tenders will be issued for the same.
"SRA will have the authority for slum removal and a dedicated police force for the same will be made available for the authority," he said.
NCP leader Jayant Patil while participating in the discussion demanded judicial inquiry in the SRA project to probe whether irregularities had taken place.
Fadnavis said that the SRA is in the process to set up a special computer system to accept online applications of SRA projects.

"This will allow all to check the file status online and for which no one needs to visit offices. The progress of the file can be monitored online. It will help in speedy permissions for the project proposals," said Fadnavis.