10, 000 Housing Societies in Maharashtra anticipates Single-Window Approval System

Thousands of cooperative housing societies in Maharashtra, particularly in Pune, Mumbai, and Thane, are ready to begin self-redevelopment projects but are stalled by the lack of a functional single-window approval system. 

A 2019 government resolution (GR) proposed this system, designating the Maharashtra State Cooperative Bank as the nodal agency for clearances related to self-redevelopment of properties over 30 years old. However, this system has yet to be effectively implemented.

Suhas Patwardhan, Chairman of the Maharashtra State Cooperative Federation, stated that approximately half of the state's 125,000 registered housing societies are considering redevelopment. 

Of these, an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 societies are actively interested in pursuing self-redevelopment. Their hesitation stems from the complex process of obtaining clearances from numerous government departments. This multi-departmental clearance process creates significant delays and uncertainty, discouraging societies from moving forward with their plans.

The federation has appealed to the Chief Minister to expedite the implementation of the 2019 GR and establish the promised single-window system. They believe this will significantly streamline the process and empower societies to undertake self-redevelopment projects. In addition to the single-window system, the government had also proposed a 4% subsidized loan program for societies opting for self-redevelopment, according to advocate Shreeprasad Parab, an expert director of the state housing federation.

Members of housing societies seeking self-redevelopment confirm the difficulties in obtaining necessary clearances. They cite hurdles in securing approvals related to property tax, electricity, and collector's office, often leading to years of waiting. These bureaucratic obstacles are a major impediment, preventing societies from improving their aging properties and potentially hindering urban renewal efforts. The delayed implementation of the single-window system continues to frustrate these societies and stall potential redevelopment projects.