Mumbai: Deadline extended for Haaji Noorani residents amid relocation concerns

Haaji Noorani building, which is slated for demolition. FILE PIC/SAYYED SAMEER ABEDI

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has extended by a week the deadline for residents of Haaji Noorani building to vacate their homes and shift to alternative accommodation, offering temporary relief to families struggling to relocate. Earlier, authorities sent eviction notices directing residents to vacate by April 24.

D-Abero building, where Haji Noorani residents have been allotted flats. PIC/SHADAB KHAN

Reassuring the occupants, MMRDA authorities stated that demolition of the dilapidated Haaji Noorani structure will not commence until all residents have safely vacated the premises. "We will not begin demolition until every resident has moved out. Their safety and proper rehabilitation remain our priority. We have also asked MHADA to get all repair works done within the next couple of days," Additional Collector Shivaji Davbhat told mid-day.

‘Sigh of relief'

The residents of Haaji Noorani expressed relief, stating that it would have been unfair if they had been forced to empty their existing houses just to manage project deadlines.

Collector Speak

Shivaji Davbhat, additional collector
‘The decision was taken after multiple residents expressed concerns over the readiness and condition of the accommodations, as well as the short notice given for the move. Many residents have cited issues such as incomplete facilities, lack of basic amenities, leakages, and structural concerns in the allotted alternative houses, making it difficult for them to shift immediately. Also, the paperwork of a few residents is still pending who received houses just in the last week.'

April 24
Earlier deadline for residents to vacate premises