Tenants in Mumbai delayed from moving into new flats

In D N Nagar, Andheri West, the redevelopment of over 400 old buildings has faced serious delays due to height restrictions set by the Airport Authority of India (AAI). These rules, introduced in 2021, affect many residents, particularly those at Durvankar CHS. This project began with plans for a 16-floor building, but was scaled down to 12 floors because of the restrictions. The Durvankar CHS building was originally built in 1968 and housed 40 tenants. It was declared unsafe after a slab collapse in 2019, leading to its evacuation. Residents temporarily relocated, some even to faraway areas like Virar, while the redevelopment process started. The builder was informed about the height restrictions in July 2021, which made the project financially challenging. Tenants were worried as the developer suggested that continuing the project might not be worthwhile anymore. In September 2021, a meeting was held, and residents agreed to pay ₹ 22.5 lakh per flat upon possession. They hoped this money would be refunded once the AAI moved the towers. In January 2025, the builder proposed two new options: sell their flats or allow him to rent them out until the restrictions were lifted. Residents are anxious as they are unable to afford the costs being demanded. Meanwhile, Industries Minister Uday Samant has announced that efforts to relocate the transmission towers will be completed within three months, following discussions in the legislative assembly. This news gives hope to the residents waiting for their new homes.