Mumbai: SVR Srinivas, CEO of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP), hit back at criticism from opposition parties, stating that the initiative is not just a redevelopment project but a transformative movement aimed at inclusive urban renewal. In an exclusive conversation with The Free Press Journal, Srinivas stated that the project is committed to providing housing for all, including those traditionally deemed ineligible in past slum rehabilitation schemes.
'Not A Project, It's A Movement': SVR Srinivas, CEO of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project
Responding to accusations from the opposition that the government is 'selling out' Mumbai’s largest slum and displacing thousands, Srinivas clarified, “Not at all. In fact, I don’t even call this a ‘project’; it’s a movement. This is the most inclusive slum redevelopment scheme in Indian history. Our objective is simple, housing for all. For the first time, even ineligible residents are being provided with homes. Shops, factories and commercial establishments are also part of the rehabilitation plan.”
He further noted that, unlike other schemes in Mumbai where nearly 50 per cent of slum dwellers are declared ineligible and excluded from benefits, the Dharavi project ensures no one is left behind. “I’ve handled complex projects like the Mumbai Metro, but nothing compares to the scale and challenge of Dharavi. This is the world’s largest urban renewal initiative,” he added.
Opposition's Stern Stand Against Dharavi Redevelopment Project
The redevelopment has sparked major political backlash. Opposition parties, particularly the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress, have continuously alleged that the project is being handed over to private players for profit, especially targeting the Adani Group's involvement. Rahul Gandhi has been among the most vocal critics. At a rally in March 2024, he accused the Modi government and Adani Group of 'selling all of Mumbai' and said, “Dharavi is the real Make in India. Dharavi belongs to its people, not brokers.”
Adani Group & DRPPL Issue Statement
In response, both the Adani Group and the Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt. Ltd. (DRPPL) rejected the allegations. DRPPL issued a strong rebuttal, calling Gandhi’s claims 'preposterous, malicious and unfounded.' The statement stressed that the Adani Group won the redevelopment contract through a transparent bidding process open to national and international participants. DRPPL further pointed out that the tender’s terms were finalised during the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, which included the Congress party, thus undercutting claims of political bias or manipulation.
