Dharavi Redevelopment Project Rejects Illegal Eviction Allegations

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) has firmly rejected allegations. It said authorities did not evict residents of Ganesh Nagar-Meghwadi without prior notice.

The authority stated that the demolition carried out on August 6, 2026, strictly complied with the prescribed legal framework. It said officials completed every statutory requirement before initiating the action.

The DRP explained that it issued a public notice in April 2026 asking residents of Sector 6 to execute rental agreements and voluntarily vacate their premises to avoid inconvenience during the monsoon.

Officials later served individual vacation notices to all concerned occupants.

Authorities also conducted hearings on July 6 and July 13 for residents who raised objections. They subsequently displayed demolition notices on July 28 before proceeding with the removal after repeated non-compliance.

Out of the sixteen identified hutments, twelve occupants vacated voluntarily following counselling and communication.

Authorities removed only four structures with police assistance after the occupants repeatedly declined to comply with the lawful process.

The DRP said the clearance was essential to facilitate critical public and railway infrastructure projects. It added that the work is also necessary before rehabilitation construction begins on the Mahim and Matunga Railway Lands.

The authority reiterated that every affected family is receiving rental assistance regardless of the final decision on eligibility.

Ground-floor occupants receive ₹18,000 per month, while upper-floor residents receive ₹15,000.

Beneficiaries receive a one-time shifting allowance of ₹5,000 and one month’s brokerage. They will receive a five per cent annual increase in rent assistance until permanent rehabilitation is completed.

The DRP said residents awaiting eligibility verification continue to receive opportunities to complete the process before the competent government authorities. It also stated that one year’s rent assistance is provided in advance.

Three months’ rent is released after execution of the rental agreement, while the remaining nine months’ rent is paid after occupants vacate and hand over possession.

The authority added that occupants who refuse to vacate despite due notice and completion of legal procedures may face eviction and lose relocation benefits under the applicable law.

The DRP reaffirmed its commitment to implementing rehabilitation transparently, lawfully and humanely while ensuring timely execution of essential infrastructure projects.

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