Adani Initiates Data Collection for Mumbai Slum Redevelopment Starting February

In a significant step towards the redevelopment of one of Asia's largest slums, Dharavi in Mumbai, a firm led by Indian billionaire Gautam Adani is set to initiate data collection and biometrics for up to 1 million impoverished residents starting in February.

This comprehensive survey is a pivotal aspect of determining the eligibility of residents for a free home in the redeveloped area. Adani Group secured the bid for the redevelopment in collaboration with the state of Maharashtra, overcoming longstanding legal disputes over the contract award. The ambitious project aims to transform the 640-acre Dharavi slum, a task that authorities have grappled with for decades.

To qualify for the free housing, residents must have lived in Dharavi before the year 2000. The last survey of the area was conducted 15 years ago, raising concerns that approximately 700,000 ineligible inhabitants could be relocated, potentially impacting livelihoods and leading to higher rent payments for those affected.

The Adani-led firm plans to conduct a door-to-door survey using questionnaires to gather details about Dharavi occupants, including whether they use the premises for residential or commercial purposes, proofs of ownership, and biometric data. S.V.R. Srinivas, the head of Dharavi Redevelopment Authority overseeing the project, stated, "Teams will go to each and every house... biometric data will be collected. The objective is that all eligible people should get houses, and no ineligible people should get undue advantage."

The redevelopment has faced opposition from Indian political parties, alleging unfair favoritism towards Adani during the $614 million bid award. Both the state government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party, and Adani deny any wrongdoing. Adani has enlisted global teams for the project, and Srinivas expects the redevelopment to commence within a year.

The survey will be conducted in two phases, with a pilot phase covering a few hundred residents executed in three to four weeks. The full exercise is anticipated to span nine months. The final eligibility decisions for residents receiving free homes or relocation will be made by the Dharavi Redevelopment Authority, with additional staff expected to be hired to oversee the survey and project.

BS