Socio-Economic
Impact on Mumbai

As Dharavi progresses, so does Mumbai. Amid the transformation that is paving the way for Dharavi’s inclusive and impactful development, Mumbai is also advancing economically and socially. This progress is rooted in the growth of every Dharavikar who is:

Aiming for a new way of life, rooted in dignity and development
Striving for an all-encompassing inclusivity, unity, and safety
Seeking opportunities and environment needed to turn aspirations into lived realities

Because in the heart of every Dharavikar lives a Mumbaikar. And in the transformation of Dharavi lies the way to Mumbai’s sustained and sustainable progress!

Dharavi seen from above, ringed by the wider city

Dharavi’s transformation is paving the way for Mumbai’s future growth. The project’s impact is not confined to Dharavi but extends across the city, benefiting Mumbai’s economy, infrastructure, and social fabric.

1) Better mobility and connectivity across the city

Master plan anchored in strengthening Dharavi’s role as a city connector – positioned between major rail corridors and emerging Metro networks
Plan reduces reliance on private vehicles for local movement and improves citywide travel efficiency – focused on enabling Dharavi to function as a strong east–west link and a future multi modal transport hub, supported by enhanced metro access and an internal mobility loop

2) Protecting and upgrading Dharavi’s MSME economy – strengthening Mumbai’s economic engine

Dharavi’s dense MSME ecosystem spans garments, leather, food processing, recycling and pottery
The MSME network comprises over 17,000 commercial and industrial units employing approximately 1–1.5 lakh people
Redevelopment will integrate livelihoods within the new urban form, enabling higher productivity, formal support systems, and long-term economic sustainability rather than displacement

3) New public spaces and greener waterfront for all Mumbaikars

Focus on creation of a connected open space network, planned around a Central Park and a pedestrian-friendly urban spine that links neighbourhoods into a shared civic realm.

These flexible public spaces are envisioned as cultural and social destinations – capable of hosting arts, festivals and everyday recreation for thousands of Mumbaikars

Public space and open ground planned for the redeveloped Dharavi

4) Upgraded civic infrastructure and quality of life essentials

Scope includes comprehensive upgrades to core urban infrastructure – roads, water supply, sewage systems and electricity – alongside strengthened social infrastructure
This will support safer, healthier neighbourhoods, and more reliable service delivery in one of Mumbai’s most central and densely populated areas

5) Future-ready smart systems and safer neighbourhoods

Focus on future-ready, smart city framework, exploring digitally-enabled mobility, real-time utility monitoring, environmental data systems, solid waste management and command centre led governance
Aligns with broader ambition articulated in project planning: building a people-centric, technology-enabled urban district that enhances safety, transparency and everyday urban experience

One of India’s most ambitious urban renewal efforts, the Dharavi rehabilitation project is emerging as a city-shaping effort for Mumbai, while rehabilitating nearly a million residents

When Dharavi Speaks, Mumbai Listens

After decades of neglect, the voice of Dharavi is now finally being heard. And the whole of Mumbai is listening. Listening with their hearts and souls.

To the

impassioned
pleas

of Dharavikars seeking to transform their lives

To the

cherished desires

of people wanting a life of dignity and equality

To the hopes of

children

dreaming of access to the best of education

To the aspirations of

women

striving for clean
sanitation facilities

To the ambitions of

a population

that has, for years, waited
for economic prosperity and
social upliftment

We listened. And through stories, songs and conversations, we ensured Mumbai listened too.

Throughout FY26, we amplified the voices of Dharavi through films, music, digital storytelling and radio-led conversations that brought to life the community's aspirations for a better tomorrow. Together, these initiatives highlighted both the realities of today and the possibilities of a more empowered future.

Children in Dharavi holding signs reading Ab Meri Dharavi Ki Baari Hai

What Dharavi is saying

The people of Dharavi are now openly speaking up for change.

Across Mumbai, one can hear their voice, asserting clearly and loudly –

Meri Dharavi Badlegi, Hamari Mumbai Badhegi.

Voices of Dignity

Theme: Sanitation and Dignity

Through the voices of women and young girls, the film highlighted the daily challenges associated with inadequate sanitation and the impact it has on safety, privacy and dignity. By bringing attention to a fundamental human need, it expressed hope for a future where every resident can live with greater dignity.

Poori kahani dekhne ke liye click karein.

Voices of Well-Being

Theme: Health and Well-being

The film shed light on health-related challenges arising from congested living conditions and limited access to essential civic infrastructure. Through lived experiences, it underscored aspirations for healthier living environments and an improved quality of life.

Poori kahani dekhne ke liye click karein.

Voices of Aspirations

Theme: Education and Opportunity

Seen through the eyes of parents and children, the film explored aspirations for better education and brighter futures. It highlighted the desire for opportunities that can help the next generation realise its full potential and break cycles of limitation.

Poori kahani dekhne ke liye click karein.

Stories of today.

Hope for tomorrow.

Voices that Amplified Dharavi

A Tribute to the Women of Dharavi

Local rap artist @wohidevanshiyaar created an original rap celebrating the strength, resilience and aspirations of Dharavi's women, giving voice to stories that deserve wider recognition.

Click to watch the video

Dreams Beyond Circumstance

Digital creator Sidiously spent time with a young resident of Dharavi and his family, capturing a story of hope, talent and determination that continues to thrive despite infrastructural limitations.

Click to watch the video

Witness Top RJs Coming Together for Dharavi

RJ Salil, RJ Jeeturaj and RJ Vrajesh joined forces to create a powerful rap anthem celebrating the idea that Dharavi's transformation is intrinsically linked to Mumbai's progress.

Click to watch the video

One Message. One City. One Historic Broadcast. Radio's First-Ever Simulcast

For the first time, Mumbai's leading radio voices came together for a special two-hour simulcast dedicated to Dharavi. The programme focussed on community resilience, local aspirations and the stories that continue to shape Dharavi's identity.

Click to watch the video

The Weight of a Dharavi Address

In Dharavi, parents protect their children not just from hardship, but from the weight of the world’s judgement. They quietly carry sacrifices, shield dreams from doubt, and ensure that hope remains stronger than circumstance. Their greatest aspiration is simple – to give their children a future brighter than their own.

Click to watch the video

Every aspiration shared, every story told and every voice amplified reflects the enduring spirit of Dharavi. As a new chapter unfolds, these voices continue to guide the journey ahead – reminding us that meaningful transformation begins by listening, grows through partnership and is ultimately shaped by the people it seeks to serve.

Socio-Economic
Impact on Mumbai

1) Better mobility and connectivity across the city

2) Protecting and upgrading Dharavi’s MSME economy – strengthening Mumbai’s economic engine

3) New public spaces and greener waterfront for all Mumbaikars

4) Upgraded civic infrastructure and quality of life essentials

5) Future-ready smart systems and safer neighbourhoods