In line with the Government of India’s vision of providing “Housing for All,” the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is actively implementing the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). Launched in 2015, PMAY is a flagship scheme that aims to make housing more affordable and sustainable for the urban poor. As part of this initiative, the Konkan Board is playing a crucial role in constructing Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and Low-Income Group (LIG) tenements in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

PMAY Projects in Thane District

The Konkan Board is spearheading the construction of several EWS and LIG housing projects across the Thane district under the PMAY scheme. These projects are located in key areas such as Shirdhon, Khoni, Bhandarli, Gotheghar, and Virar. Collectively, these projects will deliver a total of 15,959 EWS and 13,841 LIG tenements, catering to the housing needs of a large section of the urban population.

Each EWS tenement has a carpet area of 29.9 square meters, while LIG tenements are slightly larger, with a carpet area of 47.77 square meters. These housing units are designed with modern amenities, including Sewage Treatment Plants (STP), hospitals, schools, playgrounds, rainwater harvesting systems, and solar water heating systems, ensuring a sustainable living environment for future residents.

Strategic Location and Connectivity

The PMAY projects are strategically located to benefit from upcoming infrastructure developments in the MMR region. For instance, the Shirdhon project is set to benefit from the Virar-Alibaug Multimodal Corridor, an approved 8-14 lane expressway that will enhance connectivity to various parts of Mumbai. The project is also close to significant future developments such as Mumbai 3.0, the Navi Mumbai airport (23 km away), and the Hedutane metro station (1 km away). The proximity to key transport hubs like Kalyan Railway Station (14.2 km) and Dombivli Railway Station (10.4 km) makes the Shirdhon project highly accessible.

Similarly, the Virar project enjoys proximity to the Virar Railway Station, just 1.5 km away, making it a convenient location for daily commuters. The Khoni project, on the other hand, is 9.1 km away from Dombivli Railway Station and includes reserved plots for future facilities such as gardens, social halls, temples, and gymnasiums. Additionally, 1538.60 square meters of land have been set aside for essential services in the future.

Affordable Pricing with Credit-Linked Subsidy

One of the significant advantages of these PMAY projects is their affordability. The EWS tenements are priced between 15 lakh to 20 lakh, while the LIG tenements are available for 30 lakh to 35 lakh, including subsidies. The Central Government offers a Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme, assisting 1.5 lakh per EWS unit, with additional state assistance of 1 lakh per EWS unit. This makes the dream of owning a home within reach for many.

Eligibility and Quality Assurance

Eligibility for these housing units is determined by annual income. For EWS, the annual income should be up to ₹6 lakh, with house sizes up to 30 square meters. For LIG, the income bracket is 6-9 lakh, with house sizes ranging from 30 to 60 square meters. The government or technical institutions like IITs and NITs will carry out social audits to ensure transparency and quality.

To maintain high standards, the Konkan Board undertakes both preventive and curative measures based on quality assurance reports from accredited agencies. This ensures that all housing units and infrastructure meet the required standards before being handed over to residents.

Environmental Considerations

All projects under PMAY must obtain Environmental Clearance (EC) from the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). The EC is issued purely from an environmental perspective, ensuring that all necessary No Objection Certificates (NOCs) are in place before construction begins. This compliance ensures that the projects are environmentally sustainable and meet the regulations set by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.

MHADA’s Role in Affordable Housing

Apart from the PMAY projects, MHADA is also actively contributing to affordable housing in the Thane district. MHADA flats are known for being more affordable compared to other properties in the area, and thanks to their new construction, they often come with better amenities. These units also offer good resale value, making them an attractive investment for low-income families.

Also Read | Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana A Blueprint for Urban Housing Transformation

For instance, the MHADA project on Mira Road covers a plot area of 12,665.50 square meters and includes 196 EWS tenements with a carpet area of approximately 600-700 square feet. These units are priced between ₹40 lakh to ₹60 lakh, significantly lower than other properties in the vicinity. The project has already received its Occupancy Certificate (OC), making it ready for immediate possession.

Another notable MHADA project is in Balkum, Thane district, where 403 Middle-Income Group (MIG) tenements are being developed. These flats, with a carpet area of 720 square feet, are priced at approximately ₹69 lakh. The site is conveniently located just 5-6 km from Thane Railway Station, and 197 of these tenements have already received their OC.

Conclusion

The Konkan Board and MHADA‘s efforts in the MMR region are crucial in realising the government’s goal of “Housing for All.” By building affordable, quality housing units under schemes like PMAY, they are making homeownership more accessible to the economically weaker sections and lowincome groups. With strategic locations, modern amenities, and a focus on sustainability, these projects are set to significantly improve the living standards of thousands of families in the region.

Insights Shared by: Maharashtra Housing and Development Authority (MHADA)

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