Mhada begins eviction of dilapidated buildings’ tenants

MUMBAI: Two months after the Dongri building collapse, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (Mhada) has started evicting tenants in connection with the Bhendi Bazaar redevelopment project, adding that the process has been initiated only as a last resort.

A senior official from Mhada’s Repairs and Reconstruction board said many residents do not vacate their dilapidated buildings and continue to risk their lives despite the agency
issuing them several warning notices.

“The non-cooperating residential and commercial tenants had challenged Mhada’s proceedings and put their lives and that of others in danger,” the official said.

Explaining the eviction process, he added, “We look at a minimum of 70 per cent tenant consent, proper documentation of tenants and assurance of temporary accommodation from the developer in cases of redevelopment and eviction. This due diligence is strictly followed. The Mhada calls for a hearing to listen to tenants’ grievances.”

“If tenants are still not willing to vacate willfully, they are forcefully evicted with the help of the police,” he said.

Over 2900 residential and 850 commercial tenants have vacated their properties for the redevelopment project.

Akbar Hussain, a tenant recently shifted to the Ghodapdeo transit accommodation, said, “We support the project and feel it will be completed with cooperation from all. We signed the agreement and gave our final consent in August and shifted to the transit within a month.”

The Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT), which is undertaking the project, has already completed the first phase and has moved around 80 shop owners to the new premises.

“The initial period was a bit tough. We didn’t see much business coming our way due to the transition. But the footfall has gradually increased and hopefully business will grow steadily,” said Farzeen Jaithpurwala.