Groundbreaking Ceremony Held For Dharavi Redevelopment Project

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL) officially kicked off the much-anticipated redevelopment of Asia's largest slum on Thursday, performing a groundbreaking ceremony (Bhoomi Poojan) at the RPF grounds in Matunga. The ceremony took place in Sector 6, where construction will begin on Railway staff quarters and offices, which will be handed over to the government as per the project tender's stipulations.

The Maharashtra government has initiated a door-to-door survey to identify eligible and ineligible residents, in an effort to accelerate the project and ensure inclusive development. The DRPPL, a joint venture between the state government and Adani Group, is leading the redevelopment as part of the state's mission to make Mumbai a slum-free city by 2030.

Covering approximately 600 acres, Dharavi is one of the world's most densely populated areas. The redevelopment is expected to take seven years to complete. Upon completion, eligible residents will receive new 350-square-foot flats in Dharavi, while ineligible residents will be resettled elsewhere in Mumbai. Notably, this is the first government policy in Maharashtra ensuring housing for all residents, regardless of eligibility status.

A DRPPL representative emphasised the importance of the project, stating, "We are redeveloping one of the most densely populated clusters in the world. Our commitment is to provide Dharavikars with a 'key-to-key' exchange, guaranteeing new homes within a stipulated timeframe, without the need for temporary relocation."

Once completed, residents will be provided modern homes, each with a kitchen, toilet, and access to top-tier amenities such as hospitals, schools, open spaces, and better infrastructure. These homes will offer 17 per cent more space than similar slum rehabilitation projects in Mumbai.

Ineligible residents have been classified into two categories. Those residing in Dharavi between January 1, 2000, and January 1, 2011, will be offered homes on an ownership basis at affordable prices. Residents who moved in after 2011 will be housed under the state government’s affordable rental housing policy, with an option to purchase over time. The resettlement of ineligible residents will take place in modern townships within Mumbai.

DRPPL also aims to rehabilitate all eligible, non-polluting industries and commercial establishments within Dharavi. The state government, in collaboration with DRPPL, is working to ensure that the redevelopment process supports local businesses. The plan includes creating infrastructure to help businesses thrive, alongside the establishment of skilling centers to boost employment and income potential.

To further incentivise business growth, eligible businesses will receive reimbursement of the State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) for five years, helping to secure the long-term sustainability of Dharavi's economy.

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project is expected to become a model for resettling urban townships, setting new standards for infrastructure, housing, and community redevelopment on a global scale.