The Union Cabinet has sanctioned the transfer of 256 acres of salt pan lands to the Maharashtra government, marking a pivotal step in Mumbai’s urban development. This land, situated in Mulund, Bhandup, and Kanjurmarg, will be instrumental in advancing the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP). Construction on these lands will begin concurrently with the development of rehabilitation units for Dharavi’s eligible residents, a move aimed at addressing housing shortages and balancing urban growth.
The Dharavi Redevelopment Project has long been a cornerstone of Mumbai’s strategy to tackle its housing crisis. The newly allocated lands are set to play a dual role: they will house non-eligible Dharavi residents and support the construction of new residential units. The Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for the DRP will oversee the development, with plans to deliver 350 square feet of tenements for eligible residents and 300 square feet units for those deemed ineligible. Despite these developments, the process has encountered hurdles. The Customs Department’s use of a portion of the salt pan land at Wadala has delayed progress, leaving only 256 acres available for transfer. Additionally, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) report identifies 40 salt pan lands spanning 5,221 acres across the city and suburbs, indicating a broader context for these initiatives.
As per the new directives, the Maharashtra government will assume responsibility for transferring the lands to the DRP, and facilitating the construction of housing units. The state’s housing department has projected a significant number of residents—estimated between 300,000 to 400,000—will require relocation to rental housing as part of this redevelopment. A survey to identify eligible residents is ongoing, with preliminary results suggesting that approximately 11,000 households have been assessed. The survey is expected to conclude by March next year, potentially expediting the construction timeline.
However, this ambitious plan faces resistance. The relocation strategy has been contentious, particularly in Mumbai’s North East parliamentary constituency, which saw a political shift during the Lok Sabha elections. Opposition from local communities in Mulund and Kurla highlights the challenges in balancing development with resident concerns. Overall, while the Dharavi Redevelopment Project is poised to address critical housing needs, its success will depend on overcoming logistical challenges and managing community opposition effectively.
