Mumbai: The multi-crore Dharavi slum redevelopment project, spearheaded by the Adani Group in collaboration with the Maharashtra government, is facing allegations of land grab from MP Varsha Gaikwad. However, sources close to the project have vehemently denied these claims, stating that the land parcels are to be transferred only to the Dharavi Redevelopment Project/Slum Rehabilitation Authority (DRP/SRA) of the state government’s housing department.
The Adani Group, which secured the project through open international bidding, will develop the tenements and commercial spaces via its joint venture company Dharavi Redevelopment Project Private Ltd (DRPPL). These will then be handed over to DRP/SRA for allocation to Dharavi’s residents. The redevelopment plan does not involve any transfer of land to the Adani Group, but rather development rights granted under stringent state regulations.
Clearing Misconceptions
Sources clarified that as per the tender, the land remains with DRP/SRA at rates determined by the government. DRPPL is responsible for paying the development costs as per governmental demands. The state’s support agreement, included in the tender document, ensures that land will be allocated to DRP/SRA, maintaining government control over land distribution.
Regarding the allocation of railway land, where the first rehabilitation units are planned, sources indicated that this land was designated to DRP before tendering, with DRPPL paying a premium of 170% over the prevailing rates.
Assurances for Dharavi Residents
Addressing concerns about displacement, sources assured that no Dharavikar will be rendered homeless under the DRP/SRA scheme. The government’s 2022 order mandates that all tenement holders, whether eligible or ineligible, will be provided housing. Those with tenements established before January 1, 2000, are eligible for in-situ rehabilitation, while those between January 1, 2000, and January 1, 2011, will receive homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) for a nominal cost or through rental housing.
Tenements established post-January 1, 2011, until the cutoff date (yet to be declared) will be accommodated under the state’s proposed affordable rental home policy, with an option for hire-purchase.
Enhanced Living Standards
The Dharavi redevelopment initiative offers a 350 sq ft flat, 17% larger than other SRA schemes in Mumbai. This comprehensive project includes free housing, stamp duty, and property tax exemptions, a 10-year maintenance-free period, and a 10% commercial area within residential premises to ensure sustainable revenue for housing societies.
For businesses, the scheme provides free business spaces and a five-year state GST rebate, boosting profitability and aiding their transition into the formal economy. Vocational training programs are also planned to enhance the earning potential of Dharavi’s youth and other residents, creating eco-friendly job opportunities.
Strict Timelines and Accountability
The project imposes stringent timelines on deliverables, with penalties for any violations. Sources emphasized that no land, including the Kurla Mother Dairy land, will be given to Adani or DRPPL but will remain with DRP following the Maharashtra Land Revenue (Disposal of Government Lands) Rules, 1971.
A Transformative Vision
The Dharavi Redevelopment Project aims to transform Asia’s largest slum into a world-class neighborhood while preserving its unique essence. The initiative promises to significantly improve the quality of life for over one million residents through a human-centric approach. It includes sustainable multi-modal transport systems and state-of-the-art infrastructure utilities, ensuring a thriving and sustainable future for Dharavi.
Sources concluded that the allegations against the project are part of a fake narrative for electoral gains, which, if successful, would leave Dharavi’s residents in substandard living conditions. The Dharavi Redevelopment Project stands as a beacon of progressive development, poised to uplift the lives of its residents through inclusive and sustainable urban planning.
+ There are no comments
Add yours