Maharashtra CM Directs Creation of Structured Affordable Rental Housing System in Mumbai with Digital Access and Legal Reforms

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the state administration to establish a comprehensive mechanism for affordable rental housing in Mumbai, along with the development of a dedicated digital platform to improve access and transparency for tenants and landlords.
Maharashtra CM Directs Creation of Structured Affordable Rental Housing System in Mumbai with Digital Access and Legal Reforms

Mumbai, April 14: The directive was issued during a high-level review meeting on rental housing policy.

Key Directives

Digital Platform

  • Dedicated digital portal to streamline processes, improve transparency, and facilitate easier access to rental housing options

Structured Framework

  • Align housing supply with demand

  • Ensure citizens can access rental units suited to their budget

  • Govern all rental housing processes by formal agreements and regulatory oversight

  • Emphasise minimising disputes between landlords and tenants

Legal Reforms Under Maharashtra Rent Control Act, 1999

  • Designate deputy commissioners of police as competent authorities under the Act

  • Issue formal notifications incorporating these responsibilities into official roles

  • Ensure number of such authorities increases in proportion to expanding police jurisdictions

Judicial Measures

  • Establish dedicated courts to handle rent-related cases

  • Introduce extended court hours to expedite pending matters

Rationale

The Chief Minister highlighted the sustained influx of people into Mumbai for employment and business as a key driver of housing demand. The government must ensure the availability of rental accommodation at affordable rates and create a system that functions efficiently for both property owners and tenants.

Objective

The initiative reflects the state's response to growing pressure on Mumbai's housing ecosystem, where rising migration and limited supply have contributed to affordability constraints in the rental segment.