It’s a tug of war between progress and heritage for Matharpacady Village

A clash of visions has ignited a debate in Matharpacady village that transcends generations and challenges the delicate balance between preserving history and embracing progress. The proposed cluster redevelopment has drawn a clear divide among the residents, reflecting contrasting perspectives on the fate of this centuries-old East Indian settlement. On one side stand those who have weathered the trials of dilapidated buildings, having found solace in transit camps while awaiting the promise of a new Matharpacady. For them, this redevelopment is a beacon of hope, a chance at improved living conditions, and essential amenities that can potentially transform their daily lives. Wider roads are not just a convenience but a lifeline during emergencies, ensuring swift access for ambulances or the fire brigade. Janardhan Karkera's story encapsulates the deep-rooted connection many families share with Matharpacady. His ancestors invested in a home in a building slated for redevelopment back in 1902, only to witness its collapse in 1975. Now residing in a Mulund transit camp, Karkera longs for the opportunity to spend his remaining years in the place that holds the memories of generations past. However, the echoes of opposition resonate from approximately 35 owners of old bungalows and villas. Their resistance stems from a genuine fear of losing the unique identity and legacy embedded in the charming Portuguese-style architecture that graces the narrow lanes of Matharpacady. A resident from a heritage structure passionately argues for the autonomy of each family, suggesting that those not in favor of redevelopment should be excluded from the collective decision. Shreepati Build Infra Heritage Pvt Ltd, the developer with a stake in the project, paints a dire picture of the existing conditions. They emphasize the urgent need for redevelopment due to the compromised civic infrastructure, citing unsafe buildings. and collapsed drainage systems that lead to contaminated water reaching residents. The situation has reached a point where emergency services struggle to access structures behind the main road. The conflict intensifies as the new development control rules categorise the old bungalows as Grade 3 heritage, yet offer no exemption from redevelopment. The BMC committee's approval of the cluster redevelopment scheme, marked by the issuance of a letter of intent, further fuels the tension. The developer, while acknowledging opposition from a minority of tenants and landlords, expresses confidence in garnering cooperation for the greater good of development. As the battleground shifts from narrow lanes to legal frameworks, the original residents, who have witnessed the evolution of Matharpacady, pin their hopes on the law intervening to safeguard their heritage. The delicate balance between progress and preservation hangs in the balance, leaving Matharpacady at a crossroads where its destiny will be shaped by the collective will of its people and the legal foundations that govern its future. This story was earlier published by Times of India (TOI)

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It’s a tug of war between progress and heritage for Matharpacady Village

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