A newly formed association of residents of Asia’s largest slum Dharavi and its surrounding areas has extended its support to the state government-led survey of informal settlements. This will lead to the rehabilitation of Asia’s largest slum. Adani Group is working on the $3 billion Dharavi redevelopment project. The group claims that this project will change the lives of more than 1 million residents. In a letter to SVR Srinivas, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Maharashtra government’s Dharavi Redevelopment Project/Slum Rehabilitation Authority (DRP/SRA) on July 30, the civic and social development welfare body of Dharavi residents said, “We request that the survey be conducted as early as possible so that the redevelopment work can proceed without any delay.” The survey started on March 18, 2024
Representatives of the Citizens and Social Development Welfare, who gave the slogan ‘Dharavi Banao Andolan’, met Srinivas and submitted a memorandum demanding to expedite the survey being conducted in Dharavi. This survey started on March 18, 2024. So far, door-to-door inspection of 10,000 houses has been completed in this survey, while more than 21,000 houses have been counted. This also includes residential, commercial and religious buildings in Dharavi. Mapping of about 600 acres of densely populated Dharavi is important for redevelopment, which is likely to take seven years to complete.
Will get 350 square feet flat
After the completion of the project, eligible residents will get a 350 square feet flat in this area, while residents who do not meet the eligibility will be resettled elsewhere in Mumbai. 3-D mapping specialist Genesis International Ltd will map the area, while UK-based consultancy firm Bureau Happold Ltd will design the physical infrastructure requirements and Boston-based Sasaki Associates Inc will handle the overall redesign. Dharavi residents (popularly known as Dharavikars) have also asked Srinivas to take legal action against those opposing the survey process.
No obstruction allowed in government work
“We urge the authorities to take necessary action against any person or group of persons obstructing the survey. It is necessary to ensure lawful and uninterrupted progress of the survey for the benefit of all residents of Dharavi,” the association said in the memorandum. The delegation told Srinivas that obstructing the survey process is not only detrimental to redevelopment efforts but is also a violation of the law. “The law clearly states that no one is allowed to obstruct government work,” it said.
