Thane: Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde Wednesday announced that around 30 lakh homes could be constructed across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) over the next 15 to 20 years through various govt-backed schemes like the cluster redevelopment, among others.Shinde, who was speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Siddheshwar Nagar Cluster Redevelopment Scheme in Thane, said the state was not only actively working to widen the ambit of the cluster redevelopment in the extended MMR but also working towards including a walk-to-work concept in all future projects.“…The changes to the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations will accelerate cluster and Slum Rehabilitation Authority projects… Soon, cities like Mira-Bhayandar, Bhiwandi, Kalyan-Dombivli and Ulhasnagar will also see cluster implementation. The state is emphasising that future cluster projects become employment hubs where commercial units are developed within the same premises,” he added.Speaking about the second cluster redevelopment project in Thane after Kisan Nagar, Shinde said over 6,000 local families would be benefited due to the planned township spread over 20 Ha in close proximity to the Eastern Express Highway.Meanwhile, while issuing a warning to developers to not compromise on quality, he also assured provisions for incentive FSI for iconic buildings. The state is also considering providing additional living space to residents who want an upgrade in area at affordable rates.
