The Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP), one of the world's largest urban renewal initiatives, is poised to unlock a significant 140 million square feet of free sale area, potentially reshaping Mumbai's real estate landscape and offering a new lease of life to nearly 500,000 residents. With the Maharashtra government's recent approval of the master plan, this ambitious project is gaining momentum, targeting completion by 2032.

The approved master plan provides a detailed blueprint for integrating residential, commercial, and industrial spaces within Dharavi, while focusing on the rehabilitation of its current residents. The project, spearheaded by Navbharat Mega Developers Private Limited (NMDPL), a joint venture between the Maharashtra government's Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) and the Adani Group, aims to transform Dharavi from a congested slum into a modern, well-connected urban area. Construction has already commenced on January 14, 2025, starting with railway infrastructure improvements.

Of the 251.24 hectares (628.82 acres) encompassing Dharavi, a substantial portion, 108.99 hectares, has been earmarked for redevelopment. Within this area, approximately 47.20 hectares will be dedicated to rehabilitating existing residents, while 47.95 hectares will be developed for commercial sale by NMDPL. This free sale component is estimated to unlock 140 million square feet, presenting significant opportunities for real estate development and investment.

The project envisions constructing 72,000 new tenements, including homes, commercial shops, and spaces for small industries. These units will be designed to support a diverse community and improve the overall quality of life for Dharavi residents. The master plan proposes constructing 58,532 residential units and 13,468 commercial and industrial units for rehabilitating eligible tenants within the existing Dharavi area. Each eligible resident will receive a rehabilitation unit of 350 sq. ft., an upgrade from the 300 sq. ft. units provided in other slum redevelopment projects, regardless of the number of tenements they own. Residents deemed ineligible for rehabilitation within Dharavi will be relocated to rental housing complexes outside the area under a hire-purchase arrangement.

Beyond housing, the DRP emphasizes improving infrastructure and connectivity. The plan includes the construction of new roads, underpasses, and improved public transportation links, including a Multi-Modal Transport Hub (MMTH) managed by MMRDA, connecting to metro lines. The project also focuses on creating green spaces, parks, and community facilities, aiming to transform Dharavi into a thriving and sustainable urban ecosystem.

The estimated cost of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project is approximately Rs 95,790 crore. While the project promises a brighter future for Dharavi residents, it also faces challenges. Concerns remain regarding the rehabilitation of small-scale manufacturing and industrial units, a vital part of Dharavi's economic identity. The government has assured that eligible beneficiaries will be given space in the redeveloped area and that the concept of rehabilitation should preserve the basic commercial identity of Dharavi.

Despite these assurances, some residents and activists have voiced concerns about the lack of transparency and consultation in the planning process. They emphasize the importance of involving local communities in decision-making and ensuring that their needs and concerns are addressed. Activists have asked if the government would discuss the plan with the people who will be rehabilitated, stating that citizens should be told where they will be rehabilitated and that objections/suggestions should be taken from the people.

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project holds immense potential to transform one of Asia's largest slums into a modern, integrated urban space. The unlocking of 140 million square feet of free sale portion is expected to drive significant economic activity and reshape Mumbai's real estate market. However, the project's success hinges on addressing the concerns of residents, preserving Dharavi's unique socio-economic fabric, and ensuring a transparent and inclusive development process. The project aims to seamlessly link homes and workplaces with public transport. Level 1 will provide links to Mahim and Sion, while Level 2 will connect to Metro Lines 8 and 11.