The Maharashtra government has approved the Dharavi redevelopment master plan, a significant step towards transforming one of Asia’s largest slums into a modern urban hub. The approval comes after a detailed presentation on the redevelopment project that aims to preserve Dharavi's commercial identity while ensuring the rehabilitation of its residents.
The redevelopment plan prioritises an environmentally sustainable approach, with a focus on integrating the commercial sector. It also ensures that all original residents are provided with homes under the project, offering a fair and transparent process for housing allocation, although specific criteria will be applied to different groups of residents.
As part of the first phase, slum rehabilitation buildings will be constructed on a 28-acre land parcel, where each eligible household will be offered a 350 sq ft home with two toilets, addressing the issue of inadequate sanitation facilities in the area.
To encourage developers, the government has waived all premiums and offered a reimbursement of the state’s share of GST for five years. In addition, the government has mandated the use of Dharavi Transfer Development Rights (TDR) for all redevelopment projects in the city, which could impact property prices across Mumbai.
However, the approval has not been without controversy. Concerns have been raised over the completion of the survey, the lack of public scrutiny, and the potential displacement of residents. Critics argue that the plan is being pushed through without adequate consultation and a finalised survey, questioning the legitimacy of the process.
Despite the opposition, the government is moving forward with the plan, aiming to revitalize Dharavi and improve the living conditions for its residents while transforming the area into a more sustainable and commercially viable space.