Mumbai, June 12 — In a significant development for residents living in and around Joggers Park and the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) under the Airport Authority area in Vileparle, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde chaired a high-level meeting on Wednesday to chalk out a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.
Held at the Sahyadri Guest House, the meeting brought together senior government officials and public representatives to address the long-standing concerns of communities residing within the airport funnel zone—a space restricted for high-rise construction due to flight paths.
SGNP, often referred to as the “lungs of Mumbai,” was at the heart of the discussion. Officials underscored the ecological and social importance of the area, highlighting the urgent need for a thoughtful and humane rehabilitation policy. It was decided that affected families should be relocated within a 10-kilometre radius of the park, with basic civic services and infrastructure guaranteed at the new sites. The plan also includes provisions for larger homes and extra mats for households, ensuring better living conditions post-relocation.
The status of redevelopment within the airport funnel zone was also reviewed. Officials admitted that past errors had crept into earlier redevelopment efforts. A fresh study will now be conducted to identify and correct these missteps, with a commitment to safeguarding residents’ rights.
Meanwhile, assurances were made about Joggers Park in Vileparle East—an important recreational landmark for locals. Authorities confirmed that the park would remain untouched and maintained in its current form, with additional focus on its long-term preservation.
The meeting was attended by several prominent figures, including former MLAs Vidhan Chavan and Kiran Pavaskar, Mumbai Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, Additional Chief Secretary Asim Gupta from the Deputy CM’s office, Urban Development Department Chief Secretary Govindraj, and Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) CEO Dr. Mahendra Kalyankar.
This coordinated push by the state government signals a renewed commitment to equitable rehabilitation, with a balance of development, ecological preservation, and human dignity.
