Occupants of 390 MHADA flats in Chikalthana protest poor amenities

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

In the LIG housing scheme at Chikalthana, the MHADA project is in the process of handing over flats to residents. However, a lack of basic facilities has caused intense frustration among flat owners. On Thursday, residents confronted visiting officials at the site to highlight issues including water supply, sanitation, lift services, dust in the surroundings, and defects inside the flats.

The project comprises around 390 flats and has been promoted by MHADA as a ‘dream project.’ In reality, many essential amenities remain unavailable. Technical defects have forced residents to deal with significant hardships. Several flat owners were seen sitting on the ground during the discussion with officials. The three-hour-long meeting saw officials listening to residents’ grievances, but little progress was made. Many beneficiaries have already received flat possession, while others are still in the process of taking over.

No common meters, uncertain water supply

Lift services in the building are not yet operational. Buttons on lifts across multiple floors are defective, and in some locations switches are missing. A common electricity meter, required to start the lifts, has not yet been installed. Residents have also been given no clear information regarding which buildings will receive water from which underground tanks, when the tanks will be cleaned, or when municipal water will actually be available.

Living conditions make occupancy impossible

In many flats, walls have developed cracks. Door and window handles are defective, and the paintwork is substandard. Despite receiving possession, many residents cannot move in immediately. Exposed wiring in the lower parts of some buildings raises safety concerns. There is also no clarity on cleanliness arrangements in the complex or on security personnel.

Officials give vague responses

After hearing residents’ complaints, officials reportedly gave vague and evasive answers instead of providing concrete solutions, according to flat owners. Residents warned that if no clear responses are provided, they may be forced to take protest action in the near future.