Adani-Led Dharavi Redevelopment to Begin in 6-8 Months, Targeting 600 Acres in The Heart of Mumbai

Dharavi, Mumbai:

The long-anticipated Dharavi Redevelopment Project, covering nearly 600 acres in Mumbai’s core, is expected to commence construction within the next 6-8 months, according to SVR Srinivas, CEO of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) and the Slum Rehabilitation Authority of Maharashtra.

Survey and Data Collection Progress

Srinivas highlighted the challenges of the project but expressed confidence in its feasibility. The ongoing survey, aimed at collecting data to establish the eligibility of Dharavi’s tenement residents, is expected to be completed by the end of March. To date, over 10,000 tenements have been surveyed, with the data being crucial for setting rehabilitation eligibility criteria under the redevelopment plan.

Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation Efforts

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL), a joint venture between the Adani Group and the Maharashtra government, requires a minimum of 540 acres across Mumbai to rehabilitate residents deemed ineligible under the project. However, the joint entity has yet to receive any land parcels for rehabilitation, aside from the railway land, for which payment has already been made. Out of the 45 acres of prime railway property identified in Matunga and Mahim, DRPPL has taken control of nearly 27 acres.

Master Planning and Infrastructure Development

A master plan is currently being drafted for the Dharavi redevelopment, which will include township planning and infrastructure development. Of the total 600 acres, redevelopment efforts will focus on 296 acres, with the remaining land excluded due to existing open spaces such as Mahim Nature Park and the Koliwadas.

Population Density and Diversity

Dharavi, home to over 850,000 residents, swells to over one million when accounting for its transient population. With an extraordinary population density of 354,167 per sq km, Dharavi is Mumbai’s most overcrowded area, and the city itself ranks as the sixth most densely populated globally. Despite these challenges, Dharavi is known for its vibrant diversity, encompassing over 85 different communities.

Adani Group's Role in Redevelopment

In November 2022, Adani Group’s Adani Properties emerged as the winning bidder for the rights to redevelop Dharavi. The Adani Group holds an 80% stake in DRPPL, while the Maharashtra government retains the remaining 20%.