Dharavi Redevelopment Project Set to Begin Construction in 2025

The much-anticipated Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) is on track to commence construction within the next six to eight months, as confirmed by SVR Srinivas, CEO of the project. Speaking at the Real Estate Forum 2024, organised by the National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO), Srinivas noted that the comprehensive survey of Dharavi’s tenements is expected to conclude by March 2025. This project is seen as a transformative effort aimed at revitalising one of Asia’s largest slum clusters and improving living conditions for its residents.

The initial phase of construction will focus on the railway land within Dharavi, marking a crucial milestone in this significant urban renewal initiative. “We have thus far surveyed around 10,000 tenements, both eligible and ineligible, although a complete tally will only be available after the survey concludes,” Srinivas remarked. The project is characterised by its inclusive nature, as both eligible and ineligible tenement dwellers will be accommodated in new housing solutions. However, the requirement for approximately 550 acres of land to support the ineligible tenements is still pending allocation, highlighting ongoing challenges in the project’s implementation.

A joint venture between the Government of Maharashtra and the Adani Group, the Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL) is undertaking extensive data collection to gather information about the vast number of informal residents in the area. This redevelopment initiative is not only one of the largest urban rejuvenation projects globally but also a pivotal step towards a slum-free Mumbai. The Adani Group’s successful bid in November 2022, which included an initial investment of ₹5,069 crore towards a total estimated cost exceeding ₹20,000 crore, underscores the project’s financial significance.