The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has recently approved the transfer of a 2,000 square meter plot in Sector 5 of Dharavi to the Dharavi Redevelopment Project Private Limited (DRPPL). This move marks a significant step in the comprehensive redevelopment of Dharavi, one of the largest slums in Asia.
Government Land Transfer for Dharavi Redevelopment: The plot, located near the BEST bus depot in Dharavi Sector 5, is owned by MMRDA. The transfer was requested by the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) in May, in line with a state government resolution that mandates the transfer of government land within the Dharavi notified area to the appointed contractor. Now, with the recent approval from MMRDA, the land will be transferred to DRPPL, enabling the redevelopment of 600 acres within Dharavi.
A Joint Development Model for Comprehensive Transformation: The DRP aims to comprehensively transform Dharavi through a joint development model involving a special purpose vehicle. To facilitate this initiative, a government resolution issued on November 5, 2018, granted special rights. According to the resolution, all government-owned land in the Dharavi notified area must be handed over to DRPPL, with compensation of 25% of the ready reckoner value payable to the respective government agency.
Plans for Modern Bus Depot by DRPPL: DRPPL has laid out plans to develop a modern bus depot for the Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport (BEST) on the newly acquired land. In exchange, BEST will provide 12 acres, which includes two significant bus depots in Sion East-Dharavi and Kalakilla. These depots currently have a combined parking capacity for approximately 300 buses and house various offices related to the BEST transport and power supply divisions.
Seeking Additional Land for the Project: In addition to the 600-acre project, DRPPL is actively seeking additional land outside the Dharavi slum area. On March 13, 2024, the Railway Land Development Authority (RLDA) transferred 27.57 acres, including the Mahim station scrapyard, to DRPPL. This land is crucial for the project as it aims to redevelop the area housing nearly 12 lakh residents. The Dharavi Redevelopment Project is set to bring about a major transformation in Dharavi, offering improved living conditions and infrastructure. With the recent approval and transfer of the plot, the project can now proceed further towards achieving its goals, thereby benefiting the residents and making Dharavi a model for sustainable urban development.
