Mumbai: In a groundbreaking initiative by the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA), the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) has launched a new policy to include residents of upper-floor tenements, marking a significant step towards a more inclusive and human-focused redevelopment approach in Maharashtra. Historically, upper-floor tenements in slums were considered illegal and excluded from rehabilitation efforts, often resulting in the displacement of residents who had no viable alternatives, forcing them to move to other slums and contributing to a cycle of instability.
To combat this issue and advance the goal of a slum-free Mumbai, the state government has introduced this innovative strategy under the Dharavi Redevelopment Project, ensuring housing for those living in upper-floor units as well.
According to a Government Resolution (GR) issued on October 4, 2024, all upper-floor tenement holders in Dharavi as of November 15, 2022, are eligible for a hire-purchase rehabilitation scheme. This initiative provides residents with a 300 sq ft home in Mumbai, albeit outside of Dharavi, at a nominal rent for 25 years, after which they will own the unit. The policy also allows residents to make a lump-sum payment anytime during the 25-year period to obtain title ownership. The DRP/state government will determine and collect the rent and purchase amounts.
To qualify for the hire-purchase scheme, upper-floor residents must provide documentation such as electricity bills, registered sale or rental agreements, Aadhaar cards, ration cards, or passports indicating their floor, or an affidavit certified by a ground-floor resident.
A DRP-SRA official stated, “Through the hire-purchase scheme, Dharavikars will transition to modern housing equipped with essential amenities like private toilets and kitchens, ensuring dignity, privacy, and an improved quality of life.” The buildings will be maintained by the developer for ten years after rehabilitation, alleviating financial pressures on residents. Additionally, 10% of the built-up area will be designated for commercial use, providing a sustainable income source for housing societies. The new developments will feature wide roads, green spaces, healthcare facilities, schools, and recreational areas for families.
By addressing the needs of upper-floor tenement residents, the Dharavi Redevelopment Project sets a new standard for inclusive urban redevelopment. “This initiative not only enhances living conditions but also instills a sense of ownership and pride among residents, heralding a new era in Mumbai’s slum rehabilitation efforts,” the DRP-SRA official added.
Thousands of families who have faced instability for years will now have access to secure, affordable housing and a brighter future.