Pune: Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) tenement owners and members of Redevelopment Action Committee have raised concerns over the stalled redevelopment of MHADA houses in Yerawada.Residents have opposed blanket mega-clusters, demanding localised “mini-clusters” of two to four buildings instead. They urged MHADA to resolve delays linked to the 100-metre defence restriction through relocation or open-space usage, ensure uninterrupted conveyance deed processing, and coordinate with the state govt to fast-track pending approvals. A protest was held outside MHADA office on Thursday.“MHADA and other authorities concerned must take necessary steps to grant redevelopment permissions. Large clusters are unviable here because owners of over 3,500 houses would need to reach a consensus. Therefore, we are pressing for smaller clusters,” said Kiran Nalawade, a resident and protester.Residents emphasised that the decades-old structures in the colony have deteriorated significantly, leading to urgent safety concerns, recurring maintenance costs, and inadequate living space for growing families. According to the residents, the colony comprises 103 buildings spread across 65 acres.“Although our society is in the vicinity of defence establishments, it is well outside the restricted zones. Height restrictions should not be imposed on our redevelopment,” said Ajay Ballal, another resident and protester.Responding to the protesters, Shivaji Adhalrao Patil, chairman, Pune board, MHADA, said the issue would be addressed at the state govt level.“It appears that smaller clusters would be ideal for these areas. A site visit will be conducted next Thursday to assess the ground reality. A final call on future development will be taken after consultations with the authorities concerned,” he said.
