India, Oct. 13 -- Seven months after MHADA began handing over possession of redeveloped homes in the Naigaon compound of the BDD Chawls, residents continue to grapple with an acute water shortage. The project, showcased by the state government as a major urban renewal initiative, has left thousands of families struggling to access a basic resource despite moving into new 2 BHK flats.

Residents say water is available for only 5 to 45 minutes a day and, despite repeated complaints to MHADA and the BMC, no permanent solution has been implemented.

"MHADA had sought 3.7 million litres of water for 5,181 residential units in the new Naigaon BDD buildings," said Sudarshan Bole, vice-president of the ad hoc housing committee formed by residents...