In a significant development, the Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL), a joint venture between Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani and Mumbai’s slum rehabilitation authority, has enlisted a global team of experts for the ambitious overhaul of Dharavi, one of Asia’s largest and most densely populated slums.
The project, which covers an expansive 625 acres (253 hectares) in the heart of Mumbai, received a green light from the Maharashtra government in July 2023, with Adani’s $619 million bid winning the contract. The redevelopment has been touted as “the world’s largest urban renewal scheme” and aims to address the longstanding issues faced by the residents of Dharavi.
DRPPL announced on Monday that it has partnered with renowned architect Hafeez Contractor, known for his work on various social housing projects, as well as US design firm Sasaki and UK-based consultancy firm Buro Happold. This collaborative effort signifies a crucial step in the intricate process of transforming Dharavi into a more livable and sustainable community.
Dharavi, comparable in size to New York’s Central Park, has been grappling with overcrowding, inadequate sanitation facilities, and a lack of basic amenities for decades. The redevelopment initiative was initially proposed in the 1980s but faced numerous challenges and delays.
The selection of a global team for the project is expected to bring diverse expertise and innovative solutions to the table. However, the move comes amidst growing opposition and allegations of favoritism. A rival bidder has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s allies of providing preferential treatment to Adani, raising concerns about the transparency of the bidding process.
The Adani Group has staunchly defended the legitimacy of the bidding process, emphasizing its fairness, openness, and international competitiveness. The Maharashtra government has also refuted any claims of impropriety.
Protests against the redevelopment plans have gained momentum, with thousands marching towards Adani’s offices in Mumbai last month. Residents and activists have expressed apprehensions about Adani’s ability to deliver on such a monumental project, particularly in light of recent financial setbacks faced by the conglomerate.
DRPPL reiterated that the Dharavi slum redevelopment project was awarded through a fair and open international bidding process during the tenure of the previous Congress-Shiv Sena coalition government (Maha Vikas Aghadi or MVA). The spokesperson emphasized that financial conditions, obligations, and incentives were transparent and consistent for all bidders.
As the Dharavi redevelopment project moves forward, the involvement of a global team raises hopes for innovative solutions and positive transformations in the lives of Dharavi’s residents.
