Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has officially approved the much-awaited Dharavi Redevelopment Master Plan, marking a historic step towards transforming one of Asia’s largest slum clusters into a modern, sustainable township. The approval came after a high-level meeting at Mumbai’s Sahyadri Guest House, where project CEO SVR Srinivas presented a detailed overview of the ambitious plan in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and other senior officials.
What is Dharavi Redevelopment Project?
The Dharavi Redevelopment Project, now led by Navbharat Mega Developers Pvt Ltd—a joint venture between the Maharashtra government and the Adani Group—will cover around 600 acres. Of this, nearly 300 acres are specifically earmarked for redevelopment. The plan aims to integrate residential, commercial, and industrial spaces, effectively turning Dharavi into an annexe of the Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai’s financial hub, which is just 5.5 kilometres away.
Chief Minister Fadnavis stressed that the redevelopment must be environmentally friendly and inclusive, ensuring that Dharavi’s unique socio-cultural and economic identity is preserved. He insisted that every eligible resident, especially skilled artisans and small business owners, should be rehabilitated within Dharavi itself. “We are not just building structures, we are rebuilding lives,” he said, highlighting the need to balance development with justice for original residents.
The master plan, designed by renowned architect Hafeez Contractor, proposes to provide each eligible household with a 350 sq ft home—an upgrade from the 300 sq ft units offered in previous projects. These new homes will feature two toilets, aiming to end the era of crowded public toilet blocks in Dharavi. The project also prioritises the integration of commercial activities, with the government directing agencies to coordinate efforts to maintain Dharavi’s commercial vibrancy and community spirit.
The redevelopment is estimated to cost between Rs 2 lakh crore and Rs 3 lakh crore, with Rs 25,000 crore allocated for rehabilitation alone. Construction began in January 2025, and the project is scheduled for completion within seven years, by January 2032. The plan involves building 100 million square feet for rehabilitation, while the developer will have rights to develop and sell 140 million square feet for free sale.
Controversies
However, the approval has not been without controversy. Several political leaders and local residents have raised concerns about the lack of public consultation and the ongoing tenement survey. Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad and other critics have accused the government of bypassing legal procedures and ignoring the voices of Dharavi’s people. They argue that the master plan was approved without completing the survey or inviting public suggestions and objections, which they say violates the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act.
Residents and activists have also questioned the transparency of the eligibility process for rehabilitation. While those with slums built before 2001 are eligible for free homes, those built between 2001 and 2011 must pay construction costs, and those after 2011 are not eligible at all. There are fears that many may be relocated to far-flung areas, disrupting livelihoods and community ties. Critics are calling for greater transparency, regular communication, and a robust grievance redressal mechanism to ensure no one is left behind.
Despite the opposition, the government maintains that the project will be implemented with sensitivity and inclusivity, focusing on preserving Dharavi’s soul—a locality known for its skilled labour, micro-enterprises, and vibrant community life. Authorities have pledged to publish the master plan for public scrutiny and to continue engaging with stakeholders as the project moves forward.
Now officially approved, the Dharavi Redevelopment Master Plan stands as one of the world’s largest urban rejuvenation projects. Its success will depend on balancing the aspirations of modern Mumbai with the rights and dignity of Dharavi’s residents, ensuring that the transformation is not just physical but also social and economic.
