Maharashtra Launches Project for 45,000 Police Housing in Mumbai

The Maharashtra government has initiated a significant project aimed at addressing the housing needs of over 45,000 police personnel in Mumbai. On March 15, 2024, the state announced the formation of a high-level committee to evaluate the ambitious Mumbai Police Housing Township Project. The initiative will develop residential quarters across 75 designated plots in the city, targeting accommodation for 40,000 constables, 5,000 sub-inspectors and inspectors, and other senior officers.

To facilitate this project, the state Home Department issued a Government Resolution (GR) establishing a 15-member committee. This committee will be led by Iqbal Singh Chahal, the Additional Chief Secretary for Home. The committee’s mandate is to assess the project’s feasibility and provide recommendations. Key members include Deven Bharti, the Mumbai Police Commissioner, and Bhushan Gagrani, the Municipal Commissioner. Additionally, senior officials from the Public Works Department, Housing, Finance, and Planning departments will participate, along with the Managing Director of the Police Housing Corporation and District Collectors from the city and its suburbs.

The housing shortage for police personnel in Mumbai has persisted for many years, particularly affecting the constabulary. Established in 1856 during British rule, the Mumbai Police is one of India’s oldest and most respected law enforcement agencies. With a current strength of 51,308 officers, the force is tasked with maintaining law and order in a city with a population exceeding 13 million.

At present, there are only 19,762 residential quarters available for police personnel, all of which are fully occupied. Most of these quarters, numbering 16,958, are located in aging British-era buildings and range from just 100 to 300 square feet. This situation has led to significant challenges for officers, as nearly half of them commute between 80 to 100 kilometers daily from areas such as Karjat, Kasara, Raigad, and Palghar to reach their workplaces. The extensive travel time not only affects punctuality but also impacts overall morale.

In response to these ongoing challenges, Police Commissioner Deven Bharti recently emphasized the importance of providing adequate housing for constable-level personnel. He stated that there are ongoing efforts to ensure that new recruits receive housing units measuring 500 square feet upon joining the force. This initiative marks a proactive step towards improving the living conditions of those who serve in Mumbai’s police force.

In conclusion, the Maharashtra government’s initiative to develop housing for police personnel represents a crucial effort to address long-standing housing issues within the Mumbai Police. As the committee moves forward with its assessment, the hope is that these developments will lead to improved living conditions for thousands of dedicated officers protecting one of India’s most vibrant cities.