Mumbai: Nearly 200 Ageing Juhu Buildings Can Now be Redeveloped After Centre Revises Defence Rule Limits

The central government has reduced the restricted construction zone around the signal transmitting station in Juhu from 500 metres to 100 metres. The decision has cleared way for the redevelopment of many old residential buildings in the area. The new rule came into effect after the Ministry of Defence issued a fresh notification under Section 3 of the Works of Defence Act, 1903.

The latest notification, issued on August 3, 2026, replaces the earlier S.R.O. 150 notification dated May 15, 1976. Under the new order, only land within 100 metres of the crest of the outer parapet of the Signal Transmitting Station at Juhu will remain subject to restrictions under Section 7(c) of the Works of Defence Act, 1903. The notification became effective from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

This will benefit thousands of residents living in nearly 200 ageing residential buildings and slum clusters in Juhu. Many of these buildings are more than 75 years old and have been in poor condition because redevelopment proposals could not move ahead due to defence-related restrictions.

The Defence Ministry stated that a 100-metre restricted zone is necessary so that the area transmitting station is away from any obstacles. The notification also said that a sketch plan showing the notified area has been kept for public inspection at the office of the Sub-Divisional Officer in Santa Cruz.

Local BJP MLA Amit Satam welcomed the Centre's decision. In a report by FPJ, Satam said that the existing military wireless transmission station at Juhu is not a conventional defence establishment. He stated that it is an Indian Army signalling station that dates back to the period before World War II. 

The station had long been governed by the S.R.O. 150 notification issued under Section 3 of the Works of Defence Act, 1903. Since then, communication technology has changed significantly over the years. Signalling systems have shifted from electromagnetic technology to satellite-based communication.

The issue was also addressed by the Juhu Wireless Affected Residents Association. The association submitted a representation to a Member of Parliament seeking changes to the existing rules so that redevelopment could take place. Union Minister for Environment Bhupender Yadav replied to the representation on January 20, 2026.