(Commonwealth) _ The Adani Group, responsible for the revitalization of Mumbai’s Dharavi, among the world’s largest slum clusters, has engaged renowned planners and designers from India and globally to contribute to the master plan’s design and conceptualization. The Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL) will collaborate with architect Hafeez Contractor, UK-based consultancy firm Buro Happold, and US-based design firm Sasaki, along with experts from Singapore. Their collective aim is to “reimagine one of Asia’s largest and most vibrant informal settlements,” according to a statement. Buro Happold, known for projects like the Varso Tower in Warsaw (the tallest building in the European Union) and the regeneration of Battersea Power Station, brings its expertise. Sasaki, with experience in city infrastructure projects such as the Denargo Market Master Plan in Denver and the Ellinikon Park in Greece, will also contribute. Hafeez Contractor, known for involvement in Mumbai’s social housing and slum redevelopment projects, brings valuable insights to the endeavor. The Adani Group’s vision for the rejuvenation of Dharavi encompasses a holistic transformation. This ambitious undertaking is driven by the pressing need to address the challenges faced by over 50,000 families currently residing in overcrowded tenements. Over time, Dharavi has organically evolved into a distinctive ecosystem, reflective of its diverse community and vibrant culture.
The core focus of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL) is to overhaul the prevailing living conditions. To achieve this, the project aims to introduce a paradigm shift in housing infrastructure. Specifically, the plan entails the construction of individual private residences that will boast independent sanitation facilities, well-ventilated kitchens, and spacious areas designed for familial living and relaxation. By providing these upgraded and dignified housing options, the initiative aspires to significantly enhance the quality of life for Dharavi’s residents. The proposed residences are envisioned as modern, comfortable, and equipped with amenities that promote a sense of dignity and well-being among the inhabitants. The integration of commercial spaces within the redevelopment plans for Dharavi plays a pivotal role in catalyzing economic expansion and nurturing local entrepreneurship. By creating avenues for shops and businesses, the initiative aims to cultivate a vibrant economic landscape within the community. This endeavor is expected to not only provide residents with convenient access to essential goods and services but also spur the growth of indigenous businesses and micro-enterprises.
Furthermore, the project’s focus on sustainability extends beyond physical infrastructure. It emphasizes the empowerment of the local workforce through the establishment of vocational job opportunities and skill enhancement programs. These initiatives are designed to equip residents with the necessary expertise and capabilities to engage meaningfully in diverse industries.
Through targeted training and educational endeavors, individuals in Dharavi will acquire valuable skills, enhancing their employability and opening doors to various employment sectors. This strategic approach not only uplifts the standard of living for the community members but also contributes significantly to the long-term sustainability and self-sufficiency of Dharavi. The provision of such opportunities not only benefits individuals but also fosters a more resilient and self-reliant community, poised for sustainable growth and development in the face of evolving economic landscapes. The empowerment of local talent and the creation of a conducive environment for entrepreneurship collectively form the cornerstone of the redevelopment strategy, promising a brighter and more prosperous future for Dharavi and its residents. The Adani Group’s redevelopment strategy for Dharavi not only addresses the pressing need for improved housing but also aims to create a conducive environment for economic growth and skill development, thereby fostering a more vibrant and sustainable future for the residents.
