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Mumbai Launches Slum-Free Mission with NETRAM Tech to Stop Encroachments

The Maharashtra government has launched a major campaign to transform Mumbai into a slum-free city, named in honour of Balasaheb Thackeray. It focuses on redeveloping large slum clusters and providing residents with upgraded 300 sq ft apartments. A key component is the NETRAM system, which uses satellite imagery and GIS mapping to detect and report new illegal encroachments for immediate action. The initiative involves multiple agencies and includes reforms to ensure the long-term sustainability of new high-rise buildings.

Key Points: Mumbai Slum-Free Campaign & NETRAM System Launched

  • Slum cluster redevelopment over 50 acres
  • 300 sq ft apartments for eligible residents
  • NETRAM uses satellite data to detect new encroachments
  • Biometric verification of slum dwellers
  • Overhauled building maintenance deposit system
2 min read

Maha govt launches slum-free Mumbai campaign, NETRAM system​

Maharashtra govt launches urban welfare campaign & NETRAM tech to redevelop slums and prevent new encroachments in Mumbai via satellite monitoring.

"We are determined to realise Balasaheb Thackeray's dream of a slum-free Mumbai through this mission. - Eknath Shinde"

Mumbai, March 30

In a move to transform Mumbai into a slum-free city, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday announced the Hinduhrudaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Urban Public Welfare Campaign. ​

The initiative aims to accelerate slum redevelopment while simultaneously deploying the advanced NETRAM (Network for Encroachment Tracking and Reporting for Mumbai) technology to prevent new illegal encroachments.​

He stated that this significant campaign, launched during the birth centenary year of Balasaheb Thackeray, serves as a fitting tribute to the late leader's vision for the city. ​

The state government's decision is expected to provide a major boost to the slum redevelopment process, clearing the way for citizens to transition into well-equipped, secure housing. ​

"We are determined to realise Balasaheb Thackeray's dream of a slum-free Mumbai through this mission," he said.​

According to the Deputy Chief Minister, the campaign will prioritise clusters spanning more than 50 acres where more than 51 per cent of the area is slum. The Slum Cluster Redevelopment Scheme will be implemented by the Slum Rehabilitation Authority on large tracts of private, government, and semi-government lands. ​

Accurate mapping and biometric verification of all slum dwellers will be conducted. Memorandums of Understanding will be signed with agencies such as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, and MAHAPREIT to streamline execution, he added.​

In a major relief for residents, the government has decided to increase the minimum size of rehabilitated tenements. All eligible residents will now receive 300 sq ft apartments. ​

Existing old projects will also be upgraded to meet these new standards. To ensure that Mumbai does not see the birth of new slums, the government is introducing NETRAM, the Deputy Chief Minister said. ​

"The system will utilise satellite data, Geographic Information System mapping, and digital technology to monitor land. High-resolution satellite imagery will be analysed three times a year (every four months) to detect any new structures immediately. Using the BISAG-N web portal, data on encroachments will be sent to relevant agencies for instant demolition," he added.​

The Slum Rehabilitation Authority has established an independent implementation cell, with instructions for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority, and Collector's offices to set up similar units. ​

As redevelopment projects move toward high-rise buildings, the government has overhauled the maintenance deposit system to ensure the long-term sustainability of these buildings.​

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Increasing the flat size to 300 sq ft is a welcome step. Many old SRA buildings have tiny homes. My aunt stayed in one. If they actually upgrade old projects too, it will make a huge difference in people's lives. 🤞
R
Rohit P
Slum-free Mumbai is a dream we've heard for decades. Linking it to Balasaheb's vision is good sentiment, but we need action, not just tributes. The biometric verification must be foolproof to stop fake claimants. The devil is in the details.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has lived in Mumbai for 5 years, the scale of the slum challenge is immense. Using GIS and satellite monitoring (NETRAM) sounds like a modern, data-driven approach. Hope the focus on large clusters (>50 acres) brings systematic change.
K
Karthik V
Good initiative, but what about the people during the transition? Where will they live while buildings come up? Past projects have left families in transit camps for years. The plan needs a clear timeline and proper temporary housing.
M
Meera T
The maintenance deposit overhaul for high-rises is crucial! So many SRA buildings fall into disrepair because no one pays for upkeep. If they get this right, it will ensure the new homes remain livable. A step in the right direction. 👍

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