Surat on the Path to Becoming India’s First Slum-Free City

Why Surat Is in Focus

Surat on the Path to Becoming India’s First Slum-Free City: Surat is close to achieving the status of India’s first slum-free city, marking a major milestone in urban governance. The transformation is the result of sustained policy focus, administrative efficiency, and large-scale housing redevelopment. Rapid urbanisation in India has long resulted in informal settlements, but Surat is demonstrating that this challenge can be systematically addressed.

The city’s progress reflects a shift from temporary solutions to permanent, dignified housing for economically weaker sections. This approach aligns with national goals of inclusive urban development.

Mission Mode Slum Redevelopment Strategy

The Surat Municipal Corporation adopted a mission-oriented approach to eliminate slums. Instead of relocating residents to distant locations, the city prioritised in-situ redevelopment, rebuilding housing at the same site. This ensured social continuity and reduced livelihood disruption.

Families living in informal settlements are being provided legal ownership of permanent houses. The objective is clear: eliminate slums without displacing communities or creating new urban vulnerabilities.

Static GK fact: In-situ redevelopment is considered the most sustainable slum rehabilitation model under India’s urban housing policy framework.

Housing Design and Civic Infrastructure

The new housing units are designed as multi-storey apartment complexes with a focus on durability and safety. Each rehabilitated family receives a permanent flat with access to essential civic amenities.

Key facilities include piped drinking water, proper sewage and drainage systems, street lighting, and paved internal roads. Sanitation, waste management, and connectivity form an integral part of the redevelopment plan. These improvements significantly enhance public health outcomes and urban liveability.

Role of PMAY and State Support

The success of Surat’s model rests on effective utilisation of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana support combined with Gujarat’s state housing schemes. Central assistance under PMAY provides financial backing for urban housing projects, while state policies ensure flexibility and faster execution.

Strong coordination between local bodies, state departments, and central agencies has helped Surat complete projects at a pace rarely seen in other Indian cities.

Static GK Tip: PMAY-Urban aims to achieve “Housing for All” through four verticals, with in-situ slum redevelopment being the primary strategy for dense urban areas.

Urban and Social Significance

Becoming slum-free has wide-ranging implications for Surat. Improved housing reduces disease burden, enhances safety, and promotes social inclusion. Efficient land use also supports better city planning and infrastructure expansion.

The model strengthens India’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 11, which focuses on making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. Surat’s experience offers a replicable framework for other urban centres struggling with informal settlements.

Slums and Housing Challenges in India

Urban slums in India emerge due to rural-urban migration, housing shortages, and planning deficits. Government housing missions were introduced to bridge this gap by combining affordability with legal security. Surat’s near slum-free status indicates that consistent implementation can convert policy intent into tangible outcomes.

Static GK fact: Slums are officially defined under Indian law as areas with inadequate housing, sanitation, and access to basic services.

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Surat on the Path to Becoming India’s First Slum-Free City: