NEW DELHI: The Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) has set a goal to map every slum structure in Mumbai by December 2025 as part of a tech-driven reform initiative aimed at expediting slum rehabilitation schemes, according to CEO Mahendra Kalyankar.
The SRA has launched digital innovations, including a STQC-certified web portal available in 25 languages, integrated online modules with role-specific access, blockchain-based document approvals, and chatbot-enabled consumer interfaces. These enhancements are designed to improve transparency, accelerate project approvals, and heighten accountability in scheme implementation.
Sukhraj Nahar, president of CREDAI MCHI, noted that the SRA’s embrace of technology and development-oriented approach has positively influenced his perspective, motivating his company to consider slum rehabilitation projects.
During a joint meeting with real estate organizations like CREDAI MCHI, NAREDCO, BDA, and PEATA, Kalyankar introduced a series of digital tools incorporated into the SRA’s approval process:
Integrated online modules: Various accessible layers designed for officers, architects, and the public to ensure increased transparency and quicker approvals.
Blockchain implementation: Employed to secure and archive file approvals, promoting accountability.
Automated data collation: A new system will aggregate slum dweller data (Aadhaar, PAN, Electoral Roll, Electricity Bills), reducing the time to generate crucial Annexure-2s from 6-9 months to nearly instant.
Aadhaar linking: Slum dwellers’ Aadhaar will be linked to their permanent alternate housing to guarantee only legitimate beneficiaries receive flats and to prevent multiple claims.
Encroachment tracking cell: A dedicated unit is employing satellite data to monitor new encroachments over the years, alerting authorities to new constructions for timely intervention and demolition.
Rushi Mehta, secretary of CREDAI MCHI, stated, “The authority can now generate Annexure-2s at the click of a button, a process that previously took 6-9 months.”
Rajan Bandelkar, vice chairman of NAREDCO, remarked, “Advanced digital systems and transparent processes will not only speed up project approvals but also rebuild developers’ trust in slum rehabilitation schemes.”
Vikram Mehta, president of BDA, commented, “The establishment of an encroachment tracking cell utilizing satellite data to monitor new encroachments annually and flagging new constructions for immediate action by land-owning authorities is a significant forward step.”
