Revitalizing Mumbai's Housing Landscape: Unraveling the Evolution, Challenges, and Strategies in Urban Renewal of Old and Dilapidated Structures

The research paper delves into Mumbai’s urban evolution, narrating its journey from a fishing village to becoming India’s second-largest commercial center. The city’s growth is dissected, considering historical, geographical, and economic influences, particularly focusing on the dynamic changes in housing typology. A critical aspect explored is the unintended impact of the Rent Control Act, which, by freezing rents since 1940, has resulted in neglected properties, necessitating comprehensive redevelopment strategies. Government interventions, such as the Cluster Approach, Joint Ventures, and targeted policies for Chawls and Gaothans, are analyzed in the context of urban renewal. Public-Private Partnerships, notably with MHADA, emerge as pivotal elements in fostering collaborative models for redevelopment. The study emphasizes Mumbai’s adaptive strategies to address housing challenges and stresses the importance of sustainable and resilient policies for the city’s housing future. In this context, the research underscores the transformative role of redevelopment in Mumbai’s real estate dynamics, driven by a new generation of discerning homebuyers prioritizing quality of life.