SRA Unveils Technology-Driven Reforms to Accelerate Slum Rehabilitation Across Mumbai

The Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) has announced a series of technology-led reforms aimed at fast-tracking slum redevelopment projects and ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in implementation. With more than 50% of Mumbai’s population residing in slums or unstructured housing, these initiatives mark a major step toward creating a slum-free Mumbai and improving the living standards of countless families. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Mahendra Kalyankar, CEO, SRA, the authority is embracing digital transformation to simplify approvals, enhance transparency, and build public confidence in the rehabilitation process. In a meeting attended by representatives from CREDAI MCHI, NAREDCO, BDA, and PEATA, Dr. Kalyankar showcased the wide-ranging technological advancements integrated into SRA’s operations.

The SRA’s initiatives include:

• STQC-Certified Multilingual Website: Available in over 25 languages, making information accessible to all stakeholders.
• Integrated Online Approval Modules: Multi-layered access for officers, architects, and the public, ensuring transparency in every stage of project approval.
• Blockchain-Based File Management: Securing file approvals and maintaining tamper-proof records.
• AI-Powered Chatbots: Providing a user-friendly interface for real-time assistance and grievance redressal.
• Automated DCR System: Enabling faster and more accurate scrutiny of development proposals.

These innovations collectively aim to streamline processes, reduce human intervention, and foster accountability while reinforcing the core objective—providing dignified homes to Mumbai’s slum dwellers.

Dr. Kalyanka has set an audacious goal to digitally map every slum structure in Mumbai by the end of this year. Other key reforms include time-bound eviction and demolition programs, proactive amendments to the Slum Act, and the establishment of a dedicated Encroachment Tracking Cell that leverages satellite data to detect and act upon new encroachments.

The meeting received widespread appreciation from the attending industry leaders: Sukhraj Nahar, President, CREDAI MCHI, remarked, “We were amazed by the scale of digital integration within the SRA. The new system not only simplifies approvals but also instills confidence among developers. I am now inspired to explore slum rehabilitation projects under this renewed, transparent regime.” Rushi Mehta, Secretary, CREDAI MCHI, highlighted the significance of data integration, stating, “The use of technology to consolidate slum dweller data—linking Aadhaar, PAN, electricity bills, and voter records—is a game changer. Generating Annexure-2s in a single click, which earlier took months, will save tremendous time and ensure that only genuine beneficiaries are allotted homes.” Rajan Bandelkar, Vice Chairman, NAREDCO, added, “Under Dr. Kalyankar’s leadership, SRA is setting new benchmarks in governance and efficiency. The transparent, technology-driven approach will accelerate approvals and restore developer confidence in the system.” Abhay Chandak, Vice President, NAREDCO Maharashtra, commended the SRA for implementing SOPs for demolition and eviction within 45 days under Sections 33 and 38 of the Slum Act. He noted that the recent demolition of around 1,000 structures in Worli within a month demonstrates the authority’s renewed resolve. Vikram Mehta, President, BDA, lauded the formation of the Encroachment Tracking Cell, emphasizing that “preventing new slum formations is as vital as rehabilitating existing ones.

The SRA’s proactive measures and transparent governance have infused fresh optimism in the real estate community. With industry associations now expressing readiness to take up slum redevelopment projects, the momentum toward a slum-free Mumbai is stronger than ever. Encouraged by the success of this interaction, Shri Sukhraj Nahar announced plans to organize a workshop for developers to showcase SRA’s digital transformation, encouraging wider participation in slum rehabilitation initiatives. As Dr. Mahendra Kalyankar aptly stated, “Our mission is clear—to empower developers, restore trust, and bring every slum family into the mainstream urban framework through technology, efficiency, and compassion.”