At the core of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project lies a task of monumental significance – the survey. This is the single most critical step towards the swift and successful execution of this ambitious plan, which aims to transform Dharavi into a modern, liveable community while ensuring that no resident is displaced. Without an accurate and comprehensive survey, a project of this scale and magnitude cannot move forward.
The survey is a complex operation requiring meticulous effort and coordination. It begins with teams conducting land reconnaissance, followed by the organised numbering of tenements. Advanced Lidar mapping technology is then utilised to capture the area’s layout. Once the base map is validated, the most critical phase begins: door-to-door verification. Every tenement is assigned a unique identification code based on a predetermined system.
“Over 50 dedicated teams are deployed daily across Dharavi’s five sectors and 34 zones,” a senior official with the DRP-SRA, who did not want to be identified, explained. “On an average day, 300 to 400 tenements are numbered, and 200 to 250 homes are verified. Despite major challenges like two elections and a prolonged monsoon, surveys of more than 25,000 tenements have been completed, and over 60,000 tenements have been numbered since mid-March this year. This achievement reflects the relentless dedication of the field teams.”
However, the journey is far from over. According to a source within the DRP-SRA, a significant number of tenements still need to be surveyed before the state government can finalise decisions regarding the eligibility and ineligibility of Dharavi’s residents.
“The survey is not just a bureaucratic formality,” said the source. “It is a gateway to better lives for every resident of Dharavi. By cooperating with the teams, Dharavikars can ensure their inclusion in the redevelopment process, which guarantees eligibility for new homes equipped with modern amenities. It is essential for Dharavikars to step forward and actively participate to speed up the survey’s completion.”
Additional teams are to be deployed soon to expedite what is undoubtedly Asia’s largest slum survey initiative. The vision of the redevelopment project is to provide Dharavikars with private kitchens, toilets, uninterrupted water and electricity, and a healthier, greener environment. Wider roads, open spaces, modern healthcare facilities and better infrastructure are all part of this vision – and it all begins with the survey.
“While obstacles such as political interference and vested interests have repeatedly threatened to delay progress, the collective will of Dharavikars can overcome these challenges. By and large, Dharavi’s residents have cooperated with the survey teams, but we urge even greater cooperation and a more proactive approach. Completing the survey quickly will mark the beginning of a transformative journey,” the source added.
Meanwhile, here are other striking facts about the Dharavi Redevelopment Project –
The 2022 tender is unique and unlike any other tender conceived to redevelop Dharavi. Under this scheme, everyone will receive a house, regardless of eligibility.
Ground floor structures built on or before Jan 1, 2000, qualify for free in-situ rehabilitation in Dharavi Notified Area (DNA).
Those constructed between Jan 1, 2000, and Jan 1, 2011, will receive a house outside Dharavi Notified Area (DNA) at a nominal cost of Rs 2.5 lakh under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).
Residents of upper floor structures and those who moved to Dharavi between Jan 1, 2011, and Nov 15, 2022, will be offered rented accommodation with the option of hire-purchase outside the Dharavi Notified Area (DNA). They will be rehabilitated in modern townships featuring green and open spaces, wide roads, schools, healthcare facilities, community centres, public transport access, and other social infrastructure. The state government will determine and collect the rent and hire-purchase cost.
All rehabilitated residents, whether inside or outside Dharavi Notified Area, will enjoy modern amenities and infrastructure for an enhanced lifestyle. The vision is inclusive and ensures equal opportunity for everyone.
Further, unlike other SRA schemes, residents will enjoy 10-year free O&M for rehabilitation buildings and 10% additional commercial areas which the society can potentially lease out and make their O&M free for lifetime.
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