Dharavi Residents’ Association Endorses Government Survey For Redevelopment Project

A new residents’ association in Dharavi has backed the state government’s survey of informal tenements. This survey is a key step in the Adani Group’s $3 billion redevelopment project, aimed at transforming the lives of nearly one million residents.

The Citizen and Society Development Welfare body of Dharavi residents requested a swift survey in a letter to SVR Srinivas, CEO of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project/Slum Rehabilitation Authority, on July 30.

Members of the Dharavi Banao Andolan met Srinivas and submitted a memorandum urging quick completion of the survey. The survey, which began on March 18, 2024, has completed door-to-door visits for 10,000 tenements and counted over 21,000 tenements, including residential, commercial, and religious structures.

Mapping Dharavi’s 600 acres is essential for the seven-year redevelopment project. Eligible residents will receive a 350-square-foot flat in Dharavi, while ineligible residents will be rehoused elsewhere in Mumbai.

Genesys International Ltd will handle 3-D mapping. UK consultancy Buro Happold Ltd will outline the physical infrastructure needs, and Boston-based Sasaki Associates Inc will oversee the overall redesign.

Dharavi residents demand legal action against those opposing the survey

Dharavi residents, known as Dharavikars, urged Srinivas to take legal action against those opposing the survey. They emphasized that hindering the survey violates the law and hampers redevelopment efforts.

Last week, many residents protested against the disruption of the survey. They urged Srinivas to recognize Dharavi Banao Andolan as the legitimate representative of Dharavi residents, instead of non-residents opposing the redevelopment.

Despite heavy rains and waterlogged lanes, 30 to 40 DRP survey teams are visiting each tenement. This number will soon increase to 100 teams. The Maharashtra government, along with Dharavi Redevelopment Project Private Ltd, a joint venture with the Adani Group, is conducting the survey to determine residents’ eligibility for rehabilitation under the redevelopment project.

The Dharavi redevelopment plan, distinct from the standard SRA scheme, offers homes of up to 350 square feet to eligible tenement holders. Eligibility requires proof of residence in Dharavi before January 1, 2000.

Since the 1950s, several state governments have attempted to redevelop Dharavi, but none succeeded. The current plan, the fourth attempt via a global tender, is gaining local support. The project aims to transform Dharavi into modern apartments, offices, and malls.

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