In a significant development aimed at addressing the long-pending demands of Mumbai’s mill workers, the state government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing housing for them within the city. Following a review meeting held at the Sahyadri Guest House, immediate instructions were given to organize meetings with the National Textile Corporation (NTC) to facilitate housing allocations for the maximum number of eligible mill workers.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde emphasized the sacrifices made by mill workers for the city of Mumbai and reiterated that their welfare remains a top priority. He also mentioned that discussions will soon be held with the Deputy Chief Minister to explore the possibility of reducing home prices in Shelu and Vangani to increase affordability.
To date, over 15,870 houses have been allocated to mill workers, and efforts are ongoing to provide housing to the remaining one lakh eligible workers. The Deputy CM appealed for prioritization of homes within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), where the state government has already provided various infrastructure facilities and is working on improving amenities such as grinding facilities.
The meeting was attended by State Minister Pankaj Bhoyar, former Minister Ramdas Kadam, MLA Kalidas Kolambkar, former MP Rahul Shewale, Chief Secretary of Deputy CM’s Office Navin Sona, Upper Chief Secretary of Housing Department Valsa Nair Singh, MHADA Vice President Sanjeev Jaiswal, MHADA CEO Milind Borikar, and other officials and representatives from mill workers’ associations.
The government has assured that homes in the MMR region will not only be affordable but will also be equipped with essential facilities to ensure a dignified living for mill workers.
