Maharashtra Government Approves 256 Acres of Salt Pan Land for Dharavi Redevelopment Project
The Maharashtra government has approved the allocation of 256 acres of salt pan land in Mulund, Kanjurmarg, and Bhandup for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP), addressing Mumbai's critical housing shortage. The decision comes amid concerns about using salt pan lands for affordable housing, but the state government has reassured that these parcels are safe for construction and free from environmental or ecological concerns.
Clarification on Land Use
The state government emphasized that the salt pan land parcels had been officially decommissioned years ago, with no salt manufacturing taking place for nearly a decade. The land is located west of the Eastern Expressway, where the sea water never reached due to infrastructure developments. The government clarified that the area does not fall within any Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) restrictions and is not ecologically sensitive. The wetlands and creek, home to migratory birds like flamingos, are located on the eastern side of the Expressway, further distancing the DRP area from any environmental concerns.
Government’s Vision for Affordable Housing
This move aligns with the Mumbai Development Plan (DP) 2034, approved in 2018, which highlights the need for affordable housing, especially for economically weaker sections of society. The estimated demand for affordable homes in Mumbai was around 10 lakh units by 2021, with 3.5 lakh units dedicated to economically weaker sections. The government's decision to use salt pan land for housing aims to address this gap and provide much-needed homes for the city's residents.
Support for the Initiative
Despite opposition from some quarters, developers and stakeholders have supported the use of salt pan land for affordable housing. Proponents argue that urban infrastructure projects, including metro car sheds and office complexes, have been successfully built on salt pan land without causing harm. The Dharavi Redevelopment Project, involving public-private collaboration, is viewed as a vital solution to Mumbai's housing crisis, particularly in one of the city’s most densely populated areas.
Conclusion
The allocation of 256 acres of salt pan land for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project represents a significant step in Mumbai’s urban renewal. With reassurances regarding environmental safety and adherence to regulations, this project is expected to provide much-needed housing and improve the infrastructure in one of the city's most critical areas. As the redevelopment progresses, it is poised to address the housing needs of Mumbai's growing population while contributing to long-term urban sustainability.