What was once a slum, considered the world’s largest, sprawling over 251 hectares, will soon become a well-developed area complete with green spaces, a promenade, waterfront development and a multi-modal transit hub. This is what the ambitious masterplan for Dharavi proposes, in what is one of the world’s largest redevelopment projects, to cost about Rs 3 lakh crore for rehabilitation and infrastructure.
The project is being carried out by Navbharat Mega Developers (NMDPL), a joint venture between the state government’s slum rehabilitation authority (SRA), and Adani Properties (APPL). The plan proposes to set up 8,532 housing units and 13,468 commercial units for eligible tenants in the Dharavi notified area.
At the centre of the plan is a multi-modal transit hub (MMTH), the first for the city providing access to metro, high-speed and airport express trains, besides city buses and other city transport—all at one location. This will ensure efficient transfers in all directions, with Dharavi serving as a focal point.
“Those in transit can come to Dharavi, check-in their bags for flights later in the day either from Mumbai or Navi Mumbai airports, and spend the day at various facilities at the MMTH. The MMTH, through underground elevators, escalators, and subways, will have 24×7 retail spaces restaurants, cafes, offices and hotels,” details from the company stated. Both Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports are operated by the Adani Group.
A dense road network inside Dharavi will ensure that residents can commute with the arterial routes without having to come on the main road. “It ensures a well-connected network that links different neighbourhoods, promoting a balanced and inclusive transportation system. Dharavi’s streets will be wide and interlinked every 125 metres,” the plan proposes.
The plan also offers an interconnected network of green and public spaces.
These range from large city parks to smaller community playgrounds, which will strengthen ecological resilience and enhance quality of life of residents. Niranjan Hiranandani, founder and managing director of Hiranandani Group, told FE: “The plan will certainly improve the quality of life of Dharavi residents. The face of Mumbai will change.”
The plan also proposes a waterfront development and Dharavi promenade—a linear open space to make Mithi river’s edge accessible. “The promenade shall be a place for people to come and enjoy walks along the Mithi river. This will potentially be the longest waterfront in the city after Marine Drive,” said the plan document.
Sanjay Dutt, managing director and CEO, Tata Realty & Infrastructure, told FE: “The amenities will enhance the value for developers as they will be able to attract people relating to a better lifestyle. It will be the first planned township of over 300 acres in the city.”
Also, a hospital network will be set up in Dharavi, besides polyclinics, first-aid centres and diagnostic facilities. Under the live-and-work concept, new structures will be designed to accommodate heavy industrial machinery and equipment wherever such need arises. Besides, all industrial and commercial units will be given a choice to lease out commercial spaces which the SPV (NMDPL) would build. The plan also proposes to set up places of worship for all religions and faiths.