Mumbai Congress president Varsha Gaikwad has written to the Maharashtra government, expressing concern over the uncertainty and insecurity among Dharavi residents regarding their rehabilitation after the redevelopment of the slum colony.
Urgent Meeting Sought
In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on June 13, Gaikwad requested an urgent meeting with officials and a clear rehabilitation policy for those affected by the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP). She emphasized that the project should not be limited to constructing buildings but must prioritize the social and economic well-being of residents, local industries, and the area's ecosystem.
Concerns Over Eviction Notices
Referring to 47 residential buildings in Shahu Nagar owned by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's estate department, Gaikwad noted that residents received notices on June 10 asking them to vacate their homes within seven days. “The notices have created fear and anxiety among thousands of residents as they do not specify where they will be rehabilitated, when alternative accommodation will be provided, the size of houses or how their rights will be protected,” she stated.
Gaikwad highlighted that uncertainty and insecurity prevailed because there was no written assurance that eligible families displaced from railway land and plots belonging to public bodies would be rehabilitated within Dharavi itself.
Inclusion of Public Lands
The letter pointed out that lands belonging to various public entities, including BEST depots, Tata Power, Nisarg Udyan, and other government agencies, have been included in the project. However, no clear policy has been announced regarding the rehabilitation of affected residents.
Citing media reports suggesting that Dharavi's redevelopment was being modeled on housing projects in Singapore and Hong Kong, Gaikwad said residents remained concerned due to the lack of clarity over rehabilitation, livelihoods, and the future of local industries.
Demand for Written Guarantee
She demanded that the government issue a written guarantee ensuring that all eligible residents would be rehabilitated within Dharavi.
