The Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) will feature the restoration of the Mithi River, the development of a 3.3-km public riverfront promenade and the plantation of around 40,000 trees as part of a large-scale environmental improvement initiative, Adani Navbharat Developers Private Limited (ANDPL) announced on Monday.
According to the company, the project aims to improve air quality, reduce the urban heat island effect, enhance biodiversity and create more accessible green spaces for residents in one of Mumbai’s most densely populated areas.
A key component of the redevelopment is the proposed 3.3-km promenade extending from the Matunga culvert to the mouth of the Mithi River. The public riverfront is planned with viewing decks, cafés, landscaped gardens, pedestrian walkways and dedicated spaces for cultural activities.
ANDPL said the riverfront has been designed to improve public access while supporting the ecological restoration and long-term health of the Mithi River.
The promenade will form part of an integrated green network across Dharavi. The plan includes a 15-metre-wide Green Spine for pedestrians and cyclists, a Central Park, neighbourhood parks, tree-lined roads and additional open spaces.
According to project officials, the integrated green and blue infrastructure is expected to improve air circulation, reduce heat retention in the urban environment and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
As part of the environmental plan, around 40,000 trees will be planted and conserved in phases across Dharavi and the Navbharat rehabilitation township. According to the company, this is nearly five times the number of trees proposed to be removed for the redevelopment.
In addition, nearly two lakh compensatory trees are planned across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Of these, around 30,000 trees have already been planted at Chahade village in Maharashtra’s Palghar district.
The company has set a target of planting approximately 75,000 trees during the current monsoon season.
Environmental consultancy Terracon has been appointed to oversee the plantation programme, including irrigation, protection and maintenance of the trees. The consultancy will also submit mandatory tree survival reports every six months as part of the afforestation programme, the company said.
Source: Mid-day
