"Dharavi Residents to Receive 350 sq ft Flats with Independent Kitchens"

Residents of Dharavi, Asia's largest slum located in Mumbai, are set to receive upgraded living spaces in the form of apartments with independent kitchens and toilets, measuring a minimum of 350 square feet. This initiative, part of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project, is a joint venture between the Adani Group and the Government of Maharashtra. The carpet area of these flats surpasses those offered by other slum redevelopment projects in the city, providing residents with 17 percent more space.

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project aims to create dream homes for Dharavikars, significantly improving their living conditions. Eligibility for these flats is determined based on residential tenements that existed before January 1, 2000. Last year, the Adani Group secured the bid for redeveloping Dharavi, one of the world's largest slum clusters, more than two decades after the project was initially proposed.

In a joint release, the Adani Group and the Government of Maharashtra emphasized that the new apartments would be well-lit, ventilated, hygienic, and secure. The project distinguishes itself from previous slum resettlement schemes in the city, which typically offered smaller houses of 269 square feet. Since 2018, the state government has been providing homes measuring between 315 and 322 square feet, aligning with the minimum area mandated under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana for urban poor housing.

The redevelopment project aims to transform Dharavi into a globally connected city while preserving its vibrant and unique entrepreneurial culture. The plan includes the development of commercial and industrial premises, along with the provision of community halls, recreational areas, public gardens, dispensaries, and daycare centers for children.

Recent announcements from the joint venture revealed the involvement of high-profile planners and designers from India and around the world. Renowned figures such as architect Hafeez Contractor, UK's consultancy firm Buro Happold, US-based design firm Sasaki, and experts from Singapore will contribute to designing the project and developing the master plan, highlighting the commitment to creating a sustainable and modern living environment in Dharavi.

HBL