The Maharashtra government has appointed senior IAS officer Iqbal Singh Chahal as Chairman of the Mumbai Police Housing Township Project, aiming to enhance the living conditions of the city’s police force. Effective February 1, 2026, the appointment follows Chahal’s retirement on January 31, as per an official notification dated January 21, 2026.
Chahal, who missed the opportunity for the post of state chief secretary, will lead the ambitious initiative to construct approximately 45,000 residential units for police personnel and their families. The project, with an estimated cost of Rs 20,000 crore, is intended to alleviate the chronic shortage of affordable and quality housing for the force, as approved by the state Cabinet in its recent meeting.
His tenure as Chairman will span five years, with a rank and status equivalent to that of a Minister of State, operating under the direct administrative control of the Chief Minister through the Home Department. Chahal will receive a consolidated monthly honorarium based on his ‘last pay drawn minus the pension amount,’ in addition to allowances applicable to an Additional Chief Secretary-grade officer.
The Mumbai Police Housing Township Project aims to upgrade the living conditions of the force, addressing the current situation where many reside in deteriorating British-era quarters. The comprehensive plan involves developing approximately 50 million square feet of land, including 40,000 homes for constabulary personnel and 5,000 for sub-inspectors and senior officers, with 30% of the funds provided by the state and the remaining 70% raised through institutional loans.
Recognized for his 36 years of public service, Chahal was selected for his administrative competence and extensive project management experience. His leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic as the BMC Commissioner, where the “Mumbai Model” gained international recognition, underscores his capability for the role.
