Cluster-based development to anchor Dharavi Redevelopment master plan

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) spread over nearly 600 acres in the heart of country's financial capital will be anchored by cluster-based development, aimed at reorganising the area into compact neighbourhoods with residential, commercial, and social infrastructure located within walking distance, showed the project's master plan approved by the state government.

Each cluster will include flexible social spaces, public transport access, and internal street networks. Playgrounds and child-focused spaces are part of the design, along with open areas and designated facilities for small-scale industries operating in the locality.

The DRP Master Plan outlines 15 major components. Along with clusters, the project includes a new road network of 21 km, with streets planned every 125 metres and rights-of-way ranging from 9 to 36 metres. This is intended to improve traffic movement and reduce pressure on main roads by distributing vehicle flow internally.

A Multi-Modal Transit Hub (MMTH) is also proposed as a central mobility node connecting Metro, suburban trains, inter-city rail, airport express, buses, and non-motorised transport. The hub will also include office space, retail outlets, restaurants, and hotel facilities. Passengers can check in for flights and store baggage at the hub before travel.

For businesses operating in the area, the plan includes designated workspaces with reinforced structures to accommodate machinery.

Industrial units that qualify for rehabilitation will receive space within the new development, while ineligible and lessee units will have the option to lease commercial premises constructed by the SPV, NMDPL, under the 10% commercial share set aside for upkeep of residential societies.

The plan also proposes a connected open space network, including local playgrounds, community parks, and larger public spaces. A central public square, referred to in the plan as the “Central Heart,” will function as a shared space for events and gatherings.

A green corridor, called the Green Spine, will cut across Dharavi from Mahim Nature Park to the railway redevelopment area. The corridor will include bioswales and serve as part of the area’s stormwater management system.

Medical infrastructure will include hospitals, polyclinics, diagnostic centres, and first-aid facilities spread across Dharavi and surrounding locations. The plan also proposes new religious complexes intended to serve multiple faiths.

The redevelopment is positioned as a complete reorganisation of land use, transport, and service infrastructure, with cluster development forming the base framework for implementation