Delhi May Adopt Dharavi Model for Slum Redevelopment
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Friday that the government is exploring the adoption of Mumbai’s Dharavi redevelopment model as a template for upgrading 675 slum clusters across the capital. The move is part of a broader push for structured and sustainable urban renewal.
Gupta emphasised that her government does not intend to carry out indiscriminate demolitions. “Demolishing houses is not our aim. But it should not happen that we continue allocating homes while slums remain occupied,� she said. She also clarified that slum dwellers located near railway lines should consider safety concerns, adding, “If a railway accident occurs, who will take responsibility?�
Gupta also alleged that certain groups were spreading misinformation regarding the demolition of slum settlements in Delhi, creating unnecessary panic.
The Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP), located in the heart of Mumbai, is being undertaken via a special purpose vehicle (SPV) formed through a joint venture between the Adani Group and the Maharashtra government. The project aims to transform Asia’s largest slum into a planned township, focusing not just on housing but also on preserving livelihoods and building resilient infrastructure.
SVR Srinivas, CEO of the DRP, recently highlighted that the project’s core objective is to balance redevelopment with socio-economic sustainability. He noted that the initiative goes beyond just constructing buildings—it seeks to create a sustainable ecology and a functioning urban ecosystem.
When questioned about the Anti-Corruption Branch’s summons to former Delhi minister Manish Sisodia in connection with the classroom construction case, Gupta remarked, “Everyone will have to face the music. Arvind Kejriwal will also have to return from Punjab. We do not want fugitive leaders.� Sisodia appeared before the ACB for questioning on Friday.
As the Delhi government considers implementing a similar model, the focus is expected to remain on structured rehabilitation that protects both shelter and livelihood, while ensuring urban safety and planning.