MUMBAI: Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced a significant expansion of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project, extending benefits to over 1 lakh ineligible slum-dwellers. This decision marks a departure from the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government's policy, which only provided homes to eligible slum-dwellers. Shinde emphasized that the earlier criteria made Dharavi's redevelopment nearly impossible, and the new approach aims to include everyone.

The redevelopment plan now covers both eligible residents from before 2007 and ineligible slum-dwellers, ensuring that all residents receive homes. This inclusive policy is part of the Mahayuti government's broader housing development strategy, which includes schemes for senior citizens and promotes affordable, eco-friendly housing.

The state government has set a target of building 1 lakh homes for mill workers, with tenders already invited and two received. Shinde also directed officials to explore providing homes to mill workers who have migrated back to their native villages in Maharashtra.

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project, managed by Dharavi Redevelopment Project Private Limited (DRPPL), is a special-purpose vehicle where the Adani Group holds an 80% stake, with the remaining 20% owned by the state government. The project aims to improve living conditions for Dharavi residents while addressing long-standing issues of eligibility and legal ownership.

Residents of Dharavi who owned tenements above the ground floor before November 15 will be allotted 300 square feet of apartments in other parts of Mumbai on a hire-purchase basis. These residents will pay a nominal monthly rent for 25 years, after which they will gain ownership of the flats.

The Bombay High Court recently upheld the Maharashtra government's decision to award the tender to the Adani Group, dismissing a petition against the project. The court found no irregularities in the government's decision, allowing the redevelopment to proceed.

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project spans over 600 acres and aims to provide better living conditions for one of Asia's largest slum clusters. The project includes the allocation of over 500 acres of land for housing ineligible residents, with sites identified in Deonar, Mulund, Kanjurmarg, Kurla Dairy, and Madh Island.

Shinde's announcement has been met with mixed reactions. While some praise the inclusive approach, others express concerns about the feasibility and execution of the expanded project. The state government is preparing a new housing development policy, expected to be finalized by the end of February, which will guide future redevelopment efforts.

Overall, the expansion of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project represents a significant shift in policy, aiming to provide homes for all residents and improve living conditions in one of Mumbai's most densely populated areas. The project's success will depend on effective implementation and addressing the challenges of accommodating both eligible and ineligible slum-dwellers.