Adani Group Defends Dharavi Redevelopment Project, Cites Fair Bidding Process

New Delhi, December 16: Amidst ongoing protests and allegations of favoritism, the Adani Group has come forward to clarify the bidding process for the Dharavi slum redevelopment project. In a statement released on Saturday, a spokesperson for Adanis Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL) asserted that the project was awarded through a fair and open international bidding process during the tenure of the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, a coalition of the Congress and Shiv Sena parties.

Representative image

Financial Conditions Known to All Bidders

The spokesperson emphasized that the financial conditions, obligations, and incentives for the project were known to all bidders and have not been altered for the awardee. This clarification comes in response to allegations that the Maharashtra government has shown undue favoritism towards the Adani Group in the project.

Dharavi Project: A Long-Awaited Transformation

The Dharavi redevelopment project aims to transform the world's largest slum into a modern city hub, providing better living conditions and essential amenities for its approximately 1 million residents. The project has faced several challenges and failed attempts in the past, making its successful execution crucial for the people of Dharavi.

Key-to-Key Solution for Eligible Tenement Holders

Adani Group reiterated its commitment to providing a "key-to-key" solution for eligible tenement holders, ensuring that they can move into their new homes within Dharavi itself. Even ineligible tenement holders will be provided accommodation under the Rental Housing Policy as per the tender conditions.

Increased Area for Eligible Residential Tenements

The tender provisions also ensure that eligible residential tenements will receive 17% more area compared to other SRA projects in Mumbai. This provision aims to provide more spacious and comfortable living spaces for the residents of Dharavi.

Transparent Management of Transferable Development Rights (TDR)

Addressing concerns about the generation and usage of TDR, the statement clarified that these processes are fully compliant with the relevant laws and tender conditions. The TDR from the project will be managed and monitored transparently through a specially created portal by the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) and the Maharashtra government.

99-Year Lease Agreement with Indian Railways

The state government has entered into a 99-year lease agreement with the Indian Railways for the land, which will then be subleased on a 30 years + 30 years basis, similar to other government lands in Mumbai. This policy remains unchanged for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project.

Transforming Dharavi: A Collective Vision

The statement highlighted the widespread consensus, not only in Mumbai and Maharashtra but across India, for transforming Dharavi and improving the living conditions of its residents. The Adani Group emphasized its commitment to providing better hygiene, education, vocational training, healthcare, employment opportunities, essential amenities, and a life of dignity for the people of Dharavi.

The Dharavi project holds immense significance, given the challenges faced by previous attempts at its redevelopment. The Adani Group has taken up the responsibility of transforming Dharavi with all the necessary facilities, aiming to bring about a positive and lasting change for the residents of this iconic slum.