Capacit'e Infraprojects Ltd., a leading name in construction and infrastructure, in a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) with Tata Projects, is spearheading the ambitious redevelopment of the iconic Bombay Development Department (BDD) Chawls in Worli, Mumbai. The project, taken over by the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), represents a significant step toward modernising urban living conditions. This redevelopment initiative is set to improve the quality of life for approximately 50,000 residents.

The BDD Chawls, originally established in 1920 by the then Governor of Bombay Province, were designed to address the city’s housing challenges. After Independence, the chawls came under the jurisdiction of the state government through the Public Works Department (PWD). Presently, residents live in cramped 160 sq. ft. rooms with shared toilet and bathing facilities. Decades of wear have left the structures in a dilapidated state, necessitating urgent redevelopment.

This redevelopment initiative by the state government aims to elevate the living standards of the chawl residents. It is the largest residential construction project in India, spanning an area of 255 lakh sq. ft. The project will replace the 121 existing chawls with 33 high-rise rehabilitation towers, each standing 40 stories tall. Every apartment will feature a 2BHK layout with a 500 sq. ft. carpet area, offering modern amenities including two bedrooms, a kitchen, an enclosed hall, and two bathrooms. Over 10,000 families will receive these upgraded homes, ushering in a new era of improved living standards.

In addition to rehabilitation structures, the project includes 10 residential sale towers of 76 stories, a commercial building, and essential infrastructure such as schools, hostels, hospitals, and religious centres. The total project value exceeds Rs 117.44 billion, making it a benchmark in urban redevelopment.

Capacit'e’s scope of work encompasses detailed design and engineering, obtaining requisite approvals, tenant relocation to transit camps, demolition of existing structures, and the construction of the new towers. Once complete, tenants will be relocated to their upgraded homes. The company will also manage operations and maintenance for two years post-completion.

The project incorporates advanced digital and green initiatives, including the implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM) for design accuracy, a fingerprint-based access system for safety, and eco-friendly practices like the use of LED lighting and electric concrete pumps to minimize environmental impact. These measures underscore Capacit'e’s commitment to sustainable development and technological innovation.

Speaking on the project, Rohit Katyal, Chairman and Executive Director of Capacit'e Infraprojects Ltd., stated, “The redevelopment of BDD Chawls is not just a construction project; it is a mission to uplift the lives of thousands of families and preserve the legacy of one of Mumbai’s historic landmarks. We are proud to bring our expertise to this transformative initiative, which reflects our vision of creating enduring and sustainable urban infrastructure.”