The Dharavi Redevelopment Project will be modelled on modern housing developments in Singapore and Hong Kong, according to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Speaking on Monday, Fadnavis stressed that the project – a massive urban renewal initiative in central Mumbai – is being implemented by the state government in partnership with the Adani Group.
Project vision and resident-centric approach
Fadnavis said the redevelopment initiative will bring overall development to Dharavi residents. "The Dharavi Redevelopment Project is not just about constructing buildings. It is an initiative for the holistic development of Dharavi residents, and the people living there must remain at the centre of the project," he stated. According to an official release, the chief minister emphasised that Dharavi's industrial and social ecosystem should be preserved, and public welfare must receive the highest priority even though commercial development is part of the plan. "Since the project is being implemented for the benefit of citizens, protecting their jobs and livelihoods is essential," Fadnavis added.
Preservation of cultural and industrial heritage
Fadnavis underscored the need to preserve Kumbharwada, a hub of pottery, describing it as an important part of Dharavi's cultural and tourism heritage. He directed officials to consult stakeholders to protect its unique character. A proposed Nature Park should be implemented as part of the redevelopment plan, with tree transplantation and fresh plantation measures to maintain ecological balance, he said.
Phase 1 targets 10,000 houses by 2028
The first phase of the project is targeted for completion and handover by March 2028, according to the official release. Fadnavis directed officials to plan to deliver at least 10,000 houses to eligible residents in this phase. A special single-window mechanism will expedite approvals and permissions. If all departments work in coordination, the chief minister said, "this ambitious project can be completed on time and provide Mumbai with a new global identity."
Rehabilitation buildings in Dharavi are expected to be completed within 42 months, while rehabilitation work in Matunga is scheduled for completion within 39 months, officials informed the meeting.
| Milestone | Timeline |
|---|---|
| First phase handover | March 2028 |
| Houses delivered (Phase 1) | At least 10,000 |
| Dharavi rehabilitation buildings | 42 months |
| Matunga rehabilitation work | 39 months |
MSME scheme to support trade-critical sectors
The redevelopment project will focus on employment generation, women's empowerment, protection of small enterprises, and creation of modern infrastructure. A dedicated MSME scheme is being prepared to support Dharavi's key industrial sectors: leather, garment, recycling, pottery, and food-processing. For international trade executives, these sectors represent significant export potential, especially leather goods and garments, which are part of India's global supply chains. The preservation and formalisation of these enterprises could enhance their competitiveness and integration into international markets.
Multi-modal transport hub: A gateway for trade logistics
Officials said India's first multi-modal transport hub would be developed as part of the project, integrating the Western, Central, and Harbour railway networks with multiple Metro corridors. Future connectivity with the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train is also being explored. The proposed hub will feature a city check-in facility for airline passengers, enabling them to check baggage in Dharavi before travelling to the airport through an Airport Express link. Plans also include a fast jetty for water transport connectivity and a vertiport to facilitate future air taxi services.
For logistics executives and freight forwarders, such an integrated hub could reduce transit times for goods moving through Mumbai, one of India's busiest ports. The direct rail connectivity to multiple corridors may streamline cargo movement from Dharavi's industrial clusters to集装箱 terminals and airports.
Corridor beautification and urban design
Officials also announced beautification of the BKC-Dharavi corridor, including green boulevards, pedestrian walkways, and modern urban design features. This aligns with the goal of creating a modern integrated township.
What to watch
The next key milestone is the completion of the detailed MSME scheme and the start of construction for the multi-modal transport hub. Trade stakeholders should monitor how the single-window clearance mechanism is implemented, as it could set a precedent for other large-scale infrastructure projects in India.
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