August 1, 2025: Lok Chalwal, a local non-governmental organisation, is organising a padyatra (protest march) from Kurla to Varsha — the official residence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis — on August 7. The march is being held to express strong opposition to the state government’s decision to allocate 21.3 acres of Kurla Dairy land for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project.
Local residents have voiced concern over the proposed relocation of families from Dharavi to this site in Kurla, arguing that the land was previously earmarked for public use. They have cited a prior commitment made by former Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who had assured citizens that the plot would be developed into an open recreational space for the community.
Members of Lok Chalwal say the government’s reversal of this commitment undermines local development plans and disregards the interests of Kurla’s existing population. “This land was meant to be a green, open space for public benefit. Relocating residents from another area without consulting us is unfair and shortsighted,” said a representative of the group.
The protest march will begin in Kurla and culminate at Varsha, where demonstrators plan to submit a formal memorandum to the Chief Minister, demanding a reversal of the decision and a reaffirmation of the original promise.
The Dharavi Redevelopment Project, aimed at rehabilitating thousands of families from one of Asia’s largest slums, has been mired in controversy over land use and displacement concerns. Kurla residents say that while they support redevelopment, it should not come at the cost of their own neighbourhood’s welfare and long-term urban planning.
The padyatra is expected to draw participation from citizens, activists, and civic groups, highlighting growing resistance to decisions made without adequate local consultation.
Source: Times Of India
