According to people involved with the planning process, the ongoing reconstruction masterplan places a strong emphasis on maintaining Dharavi’s distinctive “live and work” lifestyle.
The preservation of people’s live-work relationships with their industries and commerce has been guaranteed by master planning. According to a source, efforts are being made to make life as convenient as possible for Dharavikars. “Podium structures are being planned in a manner that is structurally strong and stable enough to support heavy industrial machines, so that industries can run on the ground and ground floors, while people can live on the higher floors in the same building,” the source said.
However, for lack of survey, the future prospects of certain industries and residences in areas like Kumbharwada and recyclers have been determined basis inputs available on estimated basis. “The Maharashtra government will determine whether they are eventually covered in the current redevelopment scheme.”
Another source stated that because Dharavikars would have hygienic living spaces, rehabilitation is still the top focus. “This is a redevelopment and rehabilitation project. Rehabilitation and public infrastructure at large come first. Anything that needs to be done for rehabilitation will be done in the first seven years,” he pointed out.
Creating an integrated urban environment with easily accessible and dispersed open spaces is another key component of the redevelopment vision. Metro services, railroads, buses, feeder services, and non-motorized transportation infrastructure will all be connected by a multi-modal transit hub. “The transit hub will be embedded within mixed-use developments and civic spaces, creating a vibrant node for residents and visitors alike.” Sources said.
