Pune (Voice news service):- Bhendi Bazaar, a cultural hub in Mumbai renowned for its food, and rich culture has long faced annual monsoon challenges. The area suffered with flooding, overflowing gutters, and unsafe living conditions, exacerbated by MHADA declaring over 80% of buildings unfit for habitation.
In present times, with approximately 14,000 cessed buildings, many have become extremely dangerous, particularly during the monsoon season. To prevent further tragedies, MHADA is urging residents and landowners to initiate redevelopment projects. While the BMC routinely implemented pre-monsoon measures such as desilting drains and removing debris, locals sought a more sustainable, long-term solution to their annual monsoon fears. For residents of Bhendi Bazaar, rains were synonymous with compromised living conditions, struggle and fear of losing all that was earned; a distressed feeling that everyone hoped to eradicate completely.
Several parts of Bhendi Bazaar were situated in low-lying areas, making them prone to flooding even with moderate rainfall. The drainage systems were often clogged with debris and silt, which worsened the scenario further. With these perennial problems a substantial impact also came onto the economic landscape by disrupting local businesses. Stagnant water and unsanitary conditions would increase the risk of waterborne diseases – leaving locals in complete distress.
In response to these pressing issues, the Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT), a non-profit organization, assumed responsibility in 2009 to revamp the area’s infrastructure, aiming to withstand future challenges and enhance overall quality of life. The initiative is a concerted effort to preserve Bhendi Bazaar’s 150-year-old cultural legacy while addressing the needs of its residents and businesses.
Spanning 16.5 acres divided into nine self-sustained sectors, the redevelopment project features modern buildings, expanded roads, ample open spaces, and organized commercial areas. Phase 1 of the project, named Al Saadah, successfully rehoused 610 families and 128 businesses by its completion in 2020.
SBUT strongly asserts that the redevelopment project has always been and will continue to be conducted in strict accordance with all government regulations. The project team has taken every step to ensure full compliance with legal standards and necessary approvals. Any rumors or speculations suggesting otherwise are false and incorrect. This redevelopment will play as a model for cluster-based urban renewal projects across India. As the first project registered under the DCR 33(9) scheme, it has faced unique challenges and continues to thrive and persevere towards its conclusion.
By transforming Bhendi Bazaar from a monsoon-vulnerable area into a resilient, sustainable neighbourhood, this project is not only improving living conditions but also will be setting a new standard for urban redevelopment in India. It will be a demonstration of how thoughtful planning can address long-standing infrastructure issues while respecting and enhancing a community’s cultural identity, all within the framework of legal compliance.
