Maharashtra Orders Fresh Flood Line Survey to Ease Redevelopment of Authorised Buildings
Pune, 16th February 2026: The Maharashtra government has initiated a fresh flood line survey to address redevelopment challenges faced by authorised buildings located within blue and red flood line zones along rivers across the state.
A 12-member committee has been constituted under the chairmanship of the Additional Chief Secretary of the Water Resources Department to conduct a comprehensive review and recommend corrective measures.
In several cities, redevelopment of old and authorised structures has remained stalled due to restrictions linked to blue (flood flow) and red (danger) flood lines. The newly formed panel will re-examine existing flood line demarcations and suggest revisions wherever required.
In 2009, the state had directed surveys to determine flood lines for rivers where they had not been previously fixed. In 2024, a Public Interest Litigation was filed before the Bombay High Court concerning flood line demarcation, following which a committee was appointed under the Additional Chief Secretary. The government has now reconstituted a fresh panel to undertake a broader and updated review of the issue.
The committee will conduct new surveys in cities where flood line restrictions have significantly impacted redevelopment. It will also study flood-prone zones, assess potential risks to life and property, and recommend preventive and mitigation measures.
The panel has been instructed to consult subject experts and relevant institutions, if necessary, and submit a draft report with recommendations to the state government within two months.
While preparing its report, the committee will examine several technical factors, including:
Population density along riverbanks
Number of houses and buildings within affected zones
Structural stability of existing constructions
Plinth levels of buildings
River water-carrying capacity
Redevelopment of old housing societies and authorised buildings falling within flood line areas has become a major concern in multiple cities.
The committee has specifically been tasked with:
Suggesting regulatory changes to facilitate redevelopment in flood-affected areas, including the use of Transfer of Development Rights (TDR)
Reassessing and redefining blue and red flood lines in light of current rainfall patterns and changing ground conditions
Recommending measures to minimise loss of life and financial damage due to flooding
The initiative is expected to provide relief to thousands of residents and accelerate long-pending redevelopment projects across Maharashtra.
