Navbharat Mega Developers Private Limited (NMDPL), led by the Adani Group, has applied for environmental clearance from the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) to develop a 19-acre site in Kurla for rehabilitating ineligible Dharavi residents. This land was previously home to the Mother Dairy plant.
Under a government resolution issued on 4 October 2024, those deemed ineligible for on-site rehabilitation in Dharavi will be provided 300 sq ft homes within Mumbai but outside Dharavi. These units will be offered under a hire-purchase model, allowing residents to rent for 25 years before ownership, with an option to buy after one year of possession.
However, environmental concerns have been raised, as the project could result in the felling of 900 to over 1,000 trees. Local activist Kiran Pailwan from Lok Chalwal has voiced opposition, citing significant ecological impact.
The proposed rehabilitation plan includes constructing ten buildings with multiple wings, each restricted to 18 storeys due to height regulations imposed by the site’s proximity to Mumbai airport’s funnel zone. The developers aim to complete all housing units within seven years of receiving the first phase’s commencement certificate.
NMDPL, a special-purpose vehicle with an 80% stake held by the Adani Group and 20% by the Maharashtra government, has yet to respond to queries regarding the environmental clearance request.
Source: Hindustan Times
