Dharavi residents demand for government oversight in redevelopment plans

Last week, a contingent of Dharavi's residents in Mumbai convened a protest, urging that the redevelopment of their community be directly overseen by the Maharashtra government. The rally, held at a local ground, saw participation from community activists, members of the Aam Aadmi Party, and concerned citizens.

Dharavi, often dubbed as one of the largest slums in Asia, has been a point of contention for years, especially concerning its redevelopment. Activitst pointed out that there are discrepancies in the surveys conducted regarding the housing eligibility in Dharavi. The 2008 data identified 59,000 structures, but they believe this number has surged past 100,000 now.

According to protest organizers, all necessary permissions for the demonstration had been obtained from the Mumbai Police. A notable aspect of the protest was the opposition to the Adani Group, as reflected in many placards held by the participants. The Adani Group recently became the official developers for the Dharavi Redevelopment project.

Emphasizing the socio-economic importance of Dharavi, protestors advocated for the establishment of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) within the area. They believe that Dharavi isn't just a residential hub; but a focal point for numerous small-scale industries. About 80% of Dharavi's residents rely on these local enterprises for their livelihood.

Last month, the Adani Group's real estate arm, Adani Properties, officially won the contract for the 259-hectare redevelopment initiative. This project, situated near Mumbai's BKC business district, is projected to have a revenue potential of a whopping Rs 20,000 crore. The competitive bid last year saw contenders like DLF and Naman Developers vying for the project, but it was Adani that eventually secured it.

As Dharavi braces for a transformation, the residents' demand for transparency, inclusivity, and respect for their heritage resonates loud and clear. The unfolding events will determine how developers and government agencies navigate this complex redevelopment challenge.

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Dharavi residents demand for government oversight in redevelopment plans

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