Slum Rehabilitation Authority recovers dues, but ₹646cr still pending

Mumbai, July 24, 2025 – Amid an ongoing crackdown on defaulting builders, the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) has successfully collected ₹1,386 crore in rent dues over the last three years. This includes ₹880 crore from 131 regular SRA projects and ₹501 crore from 23 builders under the amnesty scheme. However, another ₹646 crore remains unpaid, even as authorities intensify recovery measures.

In a recent data release, the SRA disclosed that ₹279 crore is still pending under regular schemes. The amnesty scheme, which initially had ₹501 crore in pending dues, saw collections reduce the outstanding amount to ₹367 crore. Additionally, builders have deposited ₹650 crore as advance rent in compliance with the SRA circular requiring early payments.

Officials stated that they are expediting the collection of pending rent from builders to prevent delays in housing allotments for slum dwellers. SRA CEO Mahindra Kalyankar emphasized that recovering dues is critical to keep rehabilitation projects on schedule. “We have given a big push to collect all pending rents from builders so that slumdwellers don’t suffer,” he said.

To enhance enforcement, the government is pursuing amendments to the Maharashtra Slum Areas (Improvement, Clearance and Redevelopment) Act, 1971. These would allow the SRA to attach assets of companies or their directors if rent dues go unpaid and recover the money for the benefit of slum dwellers.

The SRA is now focusing on project completion timelines and shifting its emphasis to the needs of slum tenants. Officials stressed that fast-tracking SRA schemes remains a top priority. “We are ensuring timely project completion and making sure slum dwellers receive their rent on time,” added Kalyankar.

With a renewed policy direction and legal backing, the SRA aims to recover the remaining ₹646 crore while keeping builders accountable. The broader goal, authorities say, is to ensure urban rehabilitation progresses without unnecessary delays or risks to displaced families.

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