Mumbai Dharavi Redevelopment Project has taken a significant stride forward with the initiation of the first phase of resettlement, utilising a 40-acre parcel of railway land in Matunga.
This pivotal development aims to rehabilitate between 15,000 and 20,000 families displaced by the redevelopment efforts in one of Asia’s largest slums. Dharavi, characterised by its dense population and vibrant informal economy, is being reimagined as a model of urban transformation. The project’s goal is to replace overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions with modern housing, improved infrastructure, and enhanced socio-economic opportunities for its residents. The chosen 40-acre site in Matunga is strategically located to minimise disruption to the displaced residents while providing upgraded living conditions. The land, previously underutilised, is now being developed to accommodate both displaced families and railway employees, integrating sustainable living practices into urban planning.
The resettlement plan is designed to address the critical need for affordable housing in Mumbai. It not only focuses on relocating affected families but also incorporates the redevelopment of existing railway structures, transforming outdated facilities into modern residential complexes. This dual approach ensures that the project supports both the urban poor and the city’s vital railway infrastructure. Progress on the project has been steady, with 80 per cent of the survey work completed. Out of the 90,000 identified units, 70,000 households have been thoroughly surveyed. Each household has been assigned a unique identification number, streamlining the allocation of homes and ensuring transparency in the resettlement process. The redevelopment blueprint includes multi-storeyed residential and commercial buildings, with an emphasis on eco-friendly design and sustainable urban living. The project also plans to enhance critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water supply, sanitation, and drainage systems. Moreover, the government is committed to bolstering social infrastructure, with plans to build hospitals, schools, colleges, and recreation centres within the redeveloped areas.
Officials involved in the project have highlighted the importance of maintaining the social fabric of Dharavi while implementing these changes. The focus is on creating inclusive spaces that cater to the diverse needs of the community, ensuring that the redevelopment is not just about physical infrastructure but also about fostering economic growth and social equity. This initiative represents a transformative moment for Mumbai, marking the first significant step towards achieving a slum-free city. It underscores the city’s commitment to sustainable urban development, with an emphasis on zero net carbon emissions and environmentally friendly practices. As the project progresses, the integration of railway land into the resettlement plan sets a precedent for future urban redevelopment projects across India. It demonstrates how strategic land utilisation, combined with inclusive urban planning, can address long-standing housing challenges in rapidly urbanising cities.
The Dharavi Redevelopment Project is not just about constructing new homes; it’s about reimagining Mumbai’s urban landscape, fostering resilience, and creating equitable opportunities for all its residents.
Dharavi Redevelopment Begins with Railway Land
