Dharavi Redevelopment: Homes Promised For Eligible And One Lakh Ineligible Slum-Dwellers

In a significant policy shift, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that over one lakh ineligible slum-dwellers in Dharavi will now be eligible for housing under the area's redevelopment plan. This benefit will also extend to the 60,000 slum-dwellers deemed eligible before 2007.

The decision marks a departure from the approach of the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, which limited housing benefits to eligible slum-dwellers.

Shinde explained that under the earlier criteria, Dharavi’s redevelopment faced near-impossible hurdles, and efforts to communicate this reality to residents were inadequate. He directed officials to launch a robust outreach campaign to clarify the new policy and its benefits.

Shinde revealed that Maharashtra, which has lacked a housing development policy since 2007, is now preparing a comprehensive policy under the Mahayuti government. A presentation of the proposed policy was shared during the meeting, with finalisation targeted for February.

Key highlights of the new policy include:

• Special schemes for senior citizens, making Maharashtra the first state to introduce such provisions.

• Promotion of affordable and eco-friendly housing initiatives.

• Construction of one lakh homes for mill workers, with tenders already invited and two submissions received.

Shinde also suggested exploring the feasibility of providing homes to mill workers who have returned to their native villages, reports Free Press Journal.

Efforts are underway to simplify the process of obtaining homes under MHADA and SRA schemes, with plans to digitise several processes to make them accessible online.

The new housing policy will feature a range of innovative schemes aimed at addressing diverse housing needs. These include the establishment of hostels for women employed in the housing sector, providing them with safe and convenient accommodation. Additionally, the policy plans to introduce student hostels and worker accommodations to support mobility and affordability for these groups.

“Everyone dreams of having a home. The Housing Department is close to people’s hearts, and we are committed to simplifying access to housing through innovative schemes,” Shinde said.

Transforming Dharavi

Dharavi is one of the most densely populated areas in the world, with over 354,000 people per square kilometre. Despite its overcrowding, Dharavi is a hub of economic activity, with thriving informal industries such as leather, pottery, and recycling providing employment to over 100,000 individuals.

The state government envisions transforming Dharavi into a modern urban cluster with high-rise residential structures, industrial zones, and commercial hubs equipped with enhanced infrastructure. The project aims to integrate Dharavi's residents into the broader city fabric, reducing socio-economic differentiation.

Dharavi’s unique cultural diversity, with over 85 communities residing within its boundaries, adds to its significance. The redevelopment plan seeks to preserve this cultural mosaic while creating a more livable environment and fostering economic growth.