DHARAVI REDEVELOPMENT

UPSC Relevance

• GS-2: Governance – Urban Planning, Centre-State Relations
• GS-3: Infrastructure & Environment – Land Use, Slum Redevelopment

Key Points: Land for Redevelopment

• The Maharashtra government approved 256 acres of salt pan land in Mulund, Kanjurmarg, and Bhandup for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP).
• The initiative aims to rehabilitate residents of Asia’s largest slum.

Environmental & Planning Compliance

• The land was deemed safe for construction by the Salt Commissioner over a decade ago.
• Located west of the Eastern Express Highway, away from ecologically sensitive wetlands.
• Development will proceed only after obtaining environmental clearances.

Policy & Strategic Alignment

• Aligns with Mumbai’s Development Plan 2034, permitting salt pan land use for affordable housing.
• The Union Government has also allocated land for an Excise complex and Metro Line 6.

Political & Social Aspects

• Described as a “human transformation mission” beyond mere housing.
• Opposition questions prioritizing land for slum housing over broader infrastructure needs.

Analysis & Path Forward

• Balancing urban housing demands with environmental sustainability is critical.
• A transparent environmental clearance process is essential to avoid ecological harm.
• Future steps should prioritize sustainable urban development alongside slum rehabilitation.