Dharavi Residents Demand Fair Housing Rights: A Test Case for Mumbai's Urban Transformation
Dharavi, Asia’s largest slum, stands at a crossroads as ambitious redevelopment plans spark significant concerns among residents and stakeholders. The project aims to upgrade living conditions and infrastructure while preserving the community’s economic and social fabric.
DharaviRedevelopmentMumbaiUrban PlanningSustainabilityReal Estate MumbaiMay 27, 2025
Political dynamics further complicate the redevelopment. Dharavi has historically been a bastion for regional parties opposed to the dominant Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The prospect of relocating or dispersing a concentrated voter base fuels political opposition and adds layers of contestation to the redevelopment process. Urban planners caution that redevelopment must preserve Dharavi’s unique social and economic character rather than simply replace slums with high-rises.
The site’s connectivity to Mumbai’s transport infrastructure, including suburban railways, metro lines, and the coastal road, makes it a coveted real estate hub. Projected land values near Dharavi could soar above ₹50,000 per sq. ft., making it a lucrative investment but raising the risk of gentrification and exclusion. The Maharashtra government’s approach involves enabling redevelopment through land swaps and transferable development rights (TDR), where developers must acquire a significant portion of their TDR from the Dharavi project’s special purpose vehicle.
While officials assure that housing for all eligible residents will be provided, uncertainties remain over the rights of ineligible residents, industrial units, and smaller businesses, many of whom may be relocated to peripheral areas. Environmental sustainability and inclusivity are critical challenges for this redevelopment. The plan envisions new housing with formal property titles for slum dwellers, a progressive step for tenure security. However, the project’s long timeline—estimated at a decade—and the sheer scale of relocation risk straining existing infrastructure and social cohesion.
Redeveloping sensitive zones like former salt pans and cleared landfill sites demands rigorous environmental safeguards to ensure net-zero carbon emissions and resilient urban design. Dharavi’s redevelopment is more than a construction project; it is a test case for Mumbai’s ability to create a sustainable, gender-neutral, and equitable city. The redevelopment must reconcile economic vitality with social justice, preserving the community’s essence while upgrading living conditions and infrastructure.
As Mumbai embarks on this transformative journey, transparent governance, meaningful resident participation, and a commitment to environmental sustainability will be key to realizing a truly inclusive urban future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the estimated annual turnover of Dharavi's industries?
Dharavi's industries, which include pottery, leatherwork, recycling, and garment manufacturing, contribute an estimated annual turnover of ₹10,000 crore.
Why is Dharavi a coveted real estate hub?
Dharavi is a coveted real estate hub due to its connectivity to Mumbai’s transport infrastructure, including suburban railways, metro lines, and the coastal road. Projected land values near Dharavi could soar above ₹50,000 per sq. ft.
What are the main challenges in Dharavi's redevelopment?
The main challenges in Dharavi's redevelopment include preserving the unique social and economic character of the area, ensuring environmental sustainability, and providing inclusive housing for all residents, including those who are ineligible.
What is the role of transferable development rights (TDR) in the redevelopment plan?
Transferable development rights (TDR) are used to enable redevelopment by allowing developers to acquire a significant portion of their TDR from the Dharavi project’s special purpose vehicle.
How long is the estimated timeline for the Dharavi redevelopment project?
The estimated timeline for the Dharavi redevelopment project is a decade, during which the relocation of residents and businesses will be a significant challenge.
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