In a landmark judgment that brings hope to thousands of urban residents, the Bombay High Court has issued crucial directives to protect the rights of Dharavi slum dwellers affected by ongoing infrastructure projects in Mumbai.
Court Mandates Immediate Relief Measures
The High Court bench has specifically ordered the Central Railway and Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to provide alternative housing arrangements for residents displaced by their development initiatives. This ruling comes as a significant intervention in Mumbai's ongoing urban transformation challenges.
Water Supply Crisis Addressed
Recognizing the fundamental right to clean water, the court has mandated the immediate restoration and maintenance of regular water supply to Dharavi residents. This directive addresses long-standing issues of inadequate basic amenities in one of Asia's largest slum settlements.
Key Directives Include:
- Provision of alternative accommodation for affected families
- Ensuring uninterrupted water supply to residential areas
- Coordination between multiple government agencies
- Timely implementation of rehabilitation measures
Balancing Development and Human Rights
The court's decision represents a crucial balancing act between Mumbai's infrastructure development needs and the protection of vulnerable communities' rights. It emphasizes that urban progress cannot come at the cost of displacing residents without adequate rehabilitation and basic amenities.
This ruling sets an important precedent for future urban development projects across Maharashtra, ensuring that the welfare of affected communities remains a priority in the state's growth narrative.
