How is the Dharavi Redevelopment Project set to enhance living conditions?

New Delhi, May 30 (NationPress) The Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) presents a remarkable chance to enhance the lives and 'live-work' environments of the residents of Dharavi, with the objective of achieving a superior quality of life enriched by excellent infrastructure and public amenities. The envisioned Master Plan aims to build on the existing traits of Dharavi and establish a world-class district for its inhabitants, reimagining a new nucleus for Mumbai.

Central to the plan is its strategic framework, which is anchored in three core principles: driving economic transformation via redevelopment, constructing resilient ecological systems and infrastructure, and cultivating an equitable Dharavi.

An extensive network of green and public spaces—ranging from expansive city parks to intimate community playgrounds—will guarantee that each resident enjoys access to lively, walkable open areas. This network aims to bolster ecological resilience while improving the daily life quality for the people of Dharavi.

A significant active public open area is intended for the heart of Dharavi, catering to the recreational needs of both the local populace and the greater Mumbai area, creating a venue for communal celebrations and festivals.

Dharavi will evolve into a highly transit-oriented development that offers seamless multi-modal connectivity, including a new metro line coursing through its center. Bus feeder systems, dedicated pathways for non-motorized transport, and a well-designed street network will enhance last-mile connectivity and promote walkability throughout all neighborhoods.

At the core of Dharavi, a Multi-Modal Transit Hub (MMTH) is proposed, featuring the first-ever facility where inter-city, intra-city, suburban, metro, high-speed, and airport express trains can be accessed alongside city buses and other transport options—all in one spot.

This integrated hub will link metro, rail, buses, feeder services, and infrastructure for non-motorized transport, facilitating efficient transfers across all directions. Travelers passing through can check in their luggage for later flights from either Mumbai or Navi Mumbai and spend the day enjoying the various facilities at the MMTH.

With underground elevators, escalators, and subways, the MMTH will offer around-the-clock retail outlets, dining options, and shopping; as well as office and hotel spaces, all conveniently connected to Central Avenue.

Additionally, a well-defined hierarchy of social infrastructure will be integrated within walkable neighborhood nodes, ensuring that every resident can easily access schools, healthcare, and community amenities. These nodes will also incorporate open spaces and transit access, catering to the diverse needs of the city. Residents will be able to reach their nearest services within a 5 to 15-minute walk.

Importantly, a state-of-the-art healthcare network will be established in Dharavi and other locations in the MMR, along with polyclinics, first-aid stations, and diagnostic centers throughout Dharavi. This initiative is set to significantly enhance the medical infrastructure in central Mumbai.

The plan promotes a mixture of residential, commercial, and institutional spaces within compact, walkable neighborhoods. This approach will bolster economic vitality while ensuring inclusive rehabilitation for current residents.

The master plan guarantees that industries will operate from appropriate and hygienic facilities. New constructions will be designed to be structurally robust enough to house heavy industrial machinery and equipment whenever necessary.

Moreover, eligible industrial units, alongside all lessees and non-eligible industrial and commercial units, will have the option to lease commercial spaces which the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) (NMDPL) will develop as part of the 10% requirement for sustaining rehabilitation societies.

This ensures that Dharavi’s distinctive 'live and work' ethos is preserved.

Each cluster will include adaptable social spaces at various levels, addressing the diverse needs and activities of residents. A primary focus of the redevelopment plan is to establish self-sufficient development clusters that prioritize the needs of all inhabitants, especially children. Quality play areas and equipment will be made available, creating a secure and nurturing atmosphere for children to grow and thrive.

The proposed waterfront development and Dharavi promenade—a linear open space—are designed to make the river's edge accessible. This promenade will serve as a location for individuals to enjoy walks along the Mithi River while visually engaging with the adjacent mangrove forest to the north.

It will provide a social gathering spot for both young and older individuals, encouraging community interaction and camaraderie. This could potentially become the longest waterfront in the city, following the Queen’s Necklace (Marine Drive).

The urban identity strategy is rooted in connectivity, inclusivity, and place-making, which will transform Dharavi into a memorable, navigable locale. Through clear streets, active peripheries, and a permeable public realm, the plan will bolster community character while promoting a safe and vibrant urban lifestyle.

The planned road network includes widening existing Development Plan (DP) roads and creating new routes totaling approximately 21 kilometers. The proposed network will feature varying Right of Way (ROW) widths of 9m, 12m, 15m, 18m, 21m, 24m, 27m, and 36m, each designed for specific functions.

A dense internal road network within Dharavi will ensure that residents can navigate to arterial routes without needing to access main roads. This will create a well-connected system that links various neighborhoods, promoting a balanced and inclusive transportation framework. Streets in Dharavi will be broad and interconnected every 125 meters.

The DNA masterplan introduces a nature-rich environment at the core of Mumbai’s most densely populated area. A green spine will stretch throughout Dharavi from Mahim Nature Park to the Railway Development Area, acting as a central green zone with roads flanking both sides. This feature will also serve as a flood mitigation strategy with a bioswale integrated into the center of the spine.

To cater to the diverse communities of different faiths, world-class religious complexes are being envisioned, ensuring that all Dharavi residents have access to state-of-the-art religious facilities near their homes.