Dharavi Redevelopment Seeks 1255 Acres For Rental Housing Solutions

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL), a special purpose vehicle set up by the government with Adani Realty as the lead developer, along with the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) and the Slum Rehabilitation Authority, has sought 1,255 acres from various government agencies to construct rental housing for residents deemed ineligible for free housing.

Key Aspects of the Redevelopment Project

• Eligibility for Housing Ground Floor Residents: Only residents of ground floor structures existing before January 1, 2000, are eligible for free housing.
• Post-2000 Residents: Residents living in Dharavi between 2000 and 2011 can acquire their units outright by paying ₹2.5 lakh as per government policy.
• Post-2011 Residents: These residents will be provided rental housing with the option to purchase the tenement later.

Project Implementation

DRPPL has proposed the creation of several townships, named Nav Dharavi, at various locations. The Mahayuti government has requested the Centre to provide 283 acres of salt pan land and additional land from the BMC for rental housing. The dairy development department has already transferred 21.5 acres to the revenue department, which will be handed over to DRPPL.

Community Involvement and Transparency

Dharavi residents, led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), have met with Srinivas, CEO of DRPPL, to demand a scientific and transparent survey process.

Shailendra Kamble of the CPI(M) state committee emphasized the need for transparency and public access to the redevelopment plans.

Controversies and Political Stances

The redevelopment project has sparked controversy, with the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) advocating for in-situ rehabilitation and the cancellation of the bid awarded to Adani Realty. Despite these challenges, DRPPL continues to push forward with its plans, aiming to enhance communication and outreach to build confidence among residents.

Survey and Data Collection

Srinivas mentioned that various representatives of Dharavi residents have requested an acceleration of the survey process and more frequent communication to keep them informed. The number of survey teams will be increased from the current 30-40 to over 100 to complete the survey by the end of the financial year. So far, 10,000 units have been surveyed.

Facts and Figures

• Land Sought: 1,255 acres from various government agencies.
• Eligibility: Free housing for ground floor residents before January 1, 2000; ₹2.5 lakh payment for residents between 2000-2011; rental housing for post-2011 residents.
• Proposed Townships: Several Nav Dharavi townships at different locations.
• Additional Land Requests: 283 acres of salt pan land and land from BMC.
• Transferred Land: 21.5 acres transferred from the dairy development department to the revenue department.
• Survey Teams: Increasing from 30-40 to over 100.
• Survey Progress: 10,000 units surveyed so far.
• Completion Target: Survey to be completed by the end of the financial year.

Conclusion

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project represents a significant effort to transform one of Mumbai's most densely populated areas into a modern urban space. By securing 1,255 acres for rental housing and involving key players like Adani Realty, the project aims to address housing needs and improve living conditions for thousands of residents. Ensuring transparency, community involvement, and efficient execution are crucial to the project's success and the future of Dharavi's redevelopment.