Mumbai, May 06: Preserving Dharavi’s unique ‘live and work’ culture is at the heart of the ongoing redevelopment masterplan, sources familiar with the planning process said.
“Through master planning it has been ensured that live-work relationship of people with their industries/commerce shall be retained. Podium structures are being planned in a manner that they are structurally strong and stable enough to support heavy industrial machines, so that industries can run on the ground and first floors, while people can live on the higher floors in the same building,” a source said, adding that efforts are being made to make life as convenient as possible for Dharavikars.
However, for lack of survey, the future prospects of certain industries and residences in areas like Kumbharwada and recyclers have been determined basis inputs available on estimated basis. “Whether they would eventually be covered in the current redevelopment scheme will be decided by the Government of Maharashtra.”
Rehabilitation remains the clear priority as Dharavikars will have hygienic liveable places, another source said. “This is a redevelopment and rehabilitation project. Rehabilitation and public infrastructure at large come first. Anything that needs to be done for rehabilitation will be done in the first seven years,” he pointed out.
Sources in the know of the masterplan described it as an iterative and evolving process, aimed at creating a logical and scientifically sound blueprint for the future of Dharavi. “The purpose of the masterplan is to ensure that every decision made for rehabilitation is backed by science and logic to make residents’ lives easier, smoother and safer. Any suggestion to make it better is always welcome.”
The redevelopment vision also stresses creating an integrated urban environment with accessible and well-distributed open spaces. A multi-modal transit hub is planned to connect metro services, railways, buses, feeder services, and non-motorised transport infrastructure. “The transit hub will be embedded within mixed-use developments and civic spaces, creating a vibrant node for residents and visitors alike.” Sources said.
The assumptions for rehab-renewal tenements, including commercial/industrial units used in the planning, are based on preliminary assessment of the ongoing survey which is nearing completion. The larger goal is to create a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable Dharavi for the future.
