Maharashtra Authorities Issue Urgent Notice to Dharavi Sector 6 Residents for Rehab Construction

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) Authority has officially issued a public notice urging residents of Matunga railway land to vacate their tenements. As of April 15, 2026, authorities are requesting that slum dwellers in specific clusters, including Ganesh Nagar-Meghwadi and Azad Nagar, move before the onset of the monsoon and the new academic year. This early relocation is deemed critical to opening multiple construction fronts and ensuring the timely delivery of modern rehabilitation housing for thousands of families.

Why Early Relocation is Necessary for Project Success

The "why" behind this urgent appeal stems from the need to facilitate "key-to-key" rehabilitation facilities. The Matunga land was integrated into the Dharavi Notified Area (DNA) under the assumption it would be available as vacant land for construction. However, with existing settlements currently occupying the space, DRP officials state there is no alternative but to clear the area to begin the physical work for 10 rehabilitation buildings. Timely cooperation is expected to prevent the massive delays that have historically hindered this multi-decade urban renewal mission.

Where the Impact is Concentrated: Targeted Clusters

The notice specifically targets approximately 3,500 households within Sector 6 of Dharavi, located in central Mumbai's Matunga railway land. The clusters identified for immediate clearance include Ganesh Nagar-Meghwadi, SVP Nagar, Azad Nagar A, B, and C, and Kamala Raman Nagar. This 35-acre parcel is slated to become the site for 11,000 new tenements, each designed as a 350 sq. ft. unit, a significant upgrade from the standard 300 sq. ft. provided in other Mumbai slum rehabilitation schemes.

Importance of the Transition Support Framework

The importance of this phase lies in the support framework designed to ensure a smooth transition for the residents. To mitigate the "atmosphere of fear" reported by some local groups, the DRP is offering residents the choice between transit accommodation or rental housing. Eligible families opting for the rental model will receive monthly rent support with a 5% annual increment until their permanent homes are ready. Furthermore, a one-time shifting allowance of ₹5,000 is being provided to assist with immediate relocation costs.

Key Data and Eligibility Guidelines

• Sector 6 construction aims to deliver 11,000 rehab units of 350 sq. ft. each.
• Eligible residents will receive one unit regardless of the number of tenements they currently own.
• Ineligible residents will be relocated to rental housing complexes outside Dharavi under hire-purchase arrangements.
• The state has identified 540 acres in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) for ineligible resident relocation.

Conclusion: A Decisive Step Toward a Modern Dharavi

This move to vacate the Matunga railway land marks a transition from conceptual planning to active physical execution for the Adani-led redevelopment project. While local representatives have raised concerns regarding the lack of signed individual agreements, authorities maintain that early vacating is the only pathway to delivering permanent, safe housing. By securing the site before the 2026 rains, the project aims to minimise the usual seasonal disruptions and maintain the momentum of one of the world's largest urban renewal exercises.

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