The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) Lottery 2026 for 2,640 affordable homes in Mumbai has received 65,082 applications. Out of these, 43,637 applicants have completed the mandatory Earnest Money Deposit (EMD), according to official data. However, this number marks a noticeable decline compared to previous lotteries in 2023 and 2024, each of which attracted more than 1 lakh applications.
In comparison, MHADA did not conduct any lottery draw in 2025, making the 2026 edition a key opportunity for homebuyers looking for affordable housing in Mumbai. Despite this, the response has been relatively lower so far.
Officials from MHADA have stated that the application process is still ongoing, with the last date for submitting applications set for May 14 and the deadline for EMD payment on May 15. They believe that application numbers typically increase sharply in the final days. According to a MHADA official, past trends show a surge in registrations closer to the deadline, suggesting that the final figures may still rise.
However, industry observers and applicants have pointed out several reasons behind the reduced interest this year. One major factor is that more than 60% of the available flats are currently under construction. Many homebuyers prefer ready-to-move-in homes, which offer immediate possession and reduce uncertainty related to project delays.
Another concern is pricing. Some applicants feel that the cost of MHADA flats is relatively high compared to similar properties available in the open market. This price difference has led some potential buyers to reconsider their participation in the lottery.
For instance, a Mumbai-based homebuyer noted that both construction status and pricing influenced the decision to skip this year’s lottery, as better options may be available elsewhere in the market.
Despite the current dip in application numbers, MHADA expects participation to improve in the final days before the deadline. The authority continues to position its lottery scheme as an important initiative for providing affordable housing in Mumbai, especially in a highly competitive real estate market.
Source : Hindustan Times
