The Maharashtra government is set to propose including first-floor residents of chawls in the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) scheme, a move expected to speed up redevelopment in suburban Mumbai.

Currently, only ground-floor chawl residents qualify for SRA benefits, stalling many projects. The draft proposal defines chawls as pre-1976 structures on private land with property tax and non-agricultural documents. Eligible residents must prove occupancy since before January 1, 2000. With around 4,500 chawls housing 3.5 lakh people in suburbs like Borivali, Malad, and Ghatkopar, redevelopment has faced resistance from excluded upper-floor residents, deterring builders. Unlike slums, chawls have shared entrances and infrastructure, making them distinct but ineligible under existing SRA rules. The proposed change aims to make smaller suburban plots more viable for redevelopment. Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar confirmed discussions with officials and assured inclusion of upper-floor residents. The Cabinet is expected to review the proposal within two months.