Nagpur’s Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) scheme, launched in 2012, faces significant challenges despite a Rs 17.5 crore budget for construction. After 14 years, Rs 8 crore remains uncollected from residents, hindering progress. The scheme aimed to provide new homes to slum residents in areas like Zingabai Takli and Indra Colony, with multi-story buildings or in-situ housing. However, out of 4,064 allotted flats, only 4,006 have been distributed, with 58 flats unallocated and 40 allegedly encroached upon by political workers.
Residents were required to pay Rs 35,000 each, but the recovery process has been slow. While 2,077 residents have paid in full, 1,110 have paid nothing, worsening the financial strain. The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has been criticized for poor progress, with a proposal to deduct payments from taxes shelved. Political leaders have misled residents into believing the dues would be forgiven, further delaying payment recovery.
Additionally, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) has overshadowed the SRA scheme, diverting attention and resources. Unlike successful models like Mumbai’s, Nagpur’s scheme has suffered from inefficiency, political interference, and lack of community involvement. Unless decisive action is taken, the Rs 8 crore will remain uncollected, and underprivileged families will continue to face delays in securing proper housing.