The survey will be crucial in deciding who among the residents of the Dharavi slum will be eligible to receive a free home in the area that is being redeveloped.
SUMMARY
- Adani to redevelop Dharavi slum
- Adani firm to conduct residents survey from February, says official
- Survey to determine eligibility of residents for free housing
The ambitious redevelopment endeavor in Mumbai’s expansive Dharavi slum, spearheaded by billionaire Gautam Adani’s enterprise, is slated to commence this upcoming February. The project’s primary goal is to gather essential data and biometrics from approximately 1 million economically challenged inhabitants, representing a pivotal stride in assessing eligibility for the complimentary housing provided within the revitalization scheme.
Dharavi, an extensive slum spanning 640 acres (260 hectares), stands among Asia’s most sizable, presenting an enduring challenge for authorities. Following prolonged legal disputes, the Adani Group clinched the opportunity to rejuvenate the region in partnership with the Maharashtra state government.
In order to pinpoint eligible recipients, the Adani-led entity will execute an exhaustive door-to-door survey, concentrating on residents established in Dharavi before the year 2000. The preceding survey, undertaken 15 years ago, disclosed outdated information, prompting concerns about potential relocation affecting around 700,000 ineligible occupants.
S.V.R. Srinivas, the head of the Dharavi Redevelopment Authority overseeing the venture, elucidated that the survey would employ questionnaires to amass comprehensive details regarding residents, their utilization of premises for residential or commercial purposes, proofs of ownership, and biometric data.
Srinivas articulated in an interview, “Our teams will visit each and every residence, ensuring the collection of biometric data. The aim is to furnish eligible residents with housing while averting undue advantages for ineligible individuals.”
The Adani-led initiative has encountered resistance from Indian political factions, alleging preferential treatment in the allocation of the $614 million redevelopment contract. Despite protests, both the state government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party, and Adani, refute any allegations of malfeasance.
Adani has enlisted global teams for the undertaking, with Srinivas expressing confidence in the commencement of redevelopment within a year. The survey will unfold in two stages, inaugurating with a trial phase encompassing a select group of residents within three to four weeks. The comprehensive exercise is anticipated to span nine months.
The ultimate determination of residents eligible for complimentary residences or relocation will rest with the Dharavi Redevelopment Authority. Additional personnel is expected to be recruited shortly to supervise both the survey and the overall initiative.
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