Affordable Housing: The Dharavi Redevelopment Thesis This thesis explores the complex challenge of redeveloping Dharavi, Asia's largest slum, into a sustainable and inclusive urban model. My personal interest lies in balancing modernization with the preservation of its unique socio-economic fabric.
Why Affordable Housing is Crucial for India Urbanization Pressure Rapid urbanization in India intensifies the demand for housing, especially in economic hubs like Mumbai. Housing Shortage India faces a significant urban housing deficit, projected to exceed 20 million units by 2025. Slum Dwellers Approximately 63% of Mumbai's population resides in informal settlements, highlighting the urgent need for formal housing. Policy Gaps Despite government initiatives like PMAY, existing schemes are insufficient to meet the scale of demand.
Aim and Objectives of the Project 1 Sustainable Redevelopment To transform Dharavi into a sustainable, mixed-use community offering dignified and affordable housing. 2 Community Preservation Provide safe homes while preserving the existing social fabric and livelihoods of the community. 3 Integrated Usage Integrate residential, commercial, and small-scale industrial activities vertically within the new structures. 4 Innovative Construction Utilize cost-efficient methods like modular container construction to ensure affordability. 5 Infrastructure Enhancement Improve critical infrastructure, sanitation, and create vibrant public spaces.
Site Overview: Dharavi, Mumbai Dharavi, a 525-acre slum, is strategically located in the heart of Mumbai, adjacent to the thriving Bandra Kurla Complex. It's home to approximately 1 million residents, with an astonishing population density of up to 1200 people per acre. Beyond its density, Dharavi boasts a robust informal economy, estimated at $650 million annually, driven by diverse small-scale industries and markets. The area is characterized by its self-organized, low-rise, dense neighborhoods, which foster a strong sense of community. However, the site faces significant challenges, including susceptibility to flooding, inadequate sanitation facilities, and complex land tenure issues, all of which necessitate a comprehensive redevelopment approach.
Proposed Development: Mixed-Use High-Rise with Containers Vertical Redevelopment: High-rise structures optimize scarce land, maximizing density and accommodating more residents and businesses. Modular Container Units: Shipping containers provide affordable, flexible, and rapidly deployable housing solutions. Mixed-Use Integration: Seamlessly blending residential units with workshops and markets within the same vertical structure. Livelihood Preservation: Designed to accommodate and support existing small-scale industries and informal businesses. Sustainable Design: Focus on efficient resource use, waste management, and the creation of green, communal spaces.
Conclusion & Future Vision Inclusive Growth Dharavi's redevelopment is vital for Mumbai's inclusive urban growth and serves as a global model for slum transformation. Innovative Solutions This thesis explores human-centric architectural solutions, blending modern design with community needs. Cultural Continuity The aim is to balance modernization with the preservation of cultural and economic continuity. Contribution to Discourse A significant contribution to affordable housing strategies in rapidly urbanizing contexts like India.