SRA issues final notice to Dharavi residents to submit documents for redevelopment

Mumbai: The Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) has issued a final notice to residents in the Dharavi Redevelopment Project area who have failed to submit the required documents for determining eligibility under the ambitious redevelopment plan.In the notice dated March 16, the authority has given slum dwellers a last 15-day window to furnish necessary documents and information, warning that failure to comply will result in decisions being taken based on available official records and survey data.A public notice issued states that the move follows a series of efforts by the SRA to ensure maximum participation, including a comprehensive door-to-door survey conducted in 2024 and multiple rounds of notices and reminders. Facilitation camps were also organised in Nov 2025 to help residents submit documents in person. Despite these measures, officials said several households have still not complied.Authorities have stated in the notice that some structures could not be surveyed due to reasons such as absence, locked premises, or domestic disputes. Information, education and communication (IEC) campaigns were also carried out to encourage participation, yielding a partial response.The SRA stated the final notice has been issued in line with principles of natural justice, giving residents one last opportunity before eligibility is determined.Officials emphasised that the Dharavi redevelopment is being implemented as an integrated project under the Maharashtra Slum Areas Act, aimed at ensuring equity and transparency.Officials have indicated that the scrutiny of submitted documents is currently underway, with draft eligibility lists being prepared for different sectors of Dharavi. The verification process is expected to play a crucial role in determining which households qualify for rehabilitation benefits, including housing in redeveloped units. Officials added that ensuring accurate documentation at this stage is essential to avoid disputes and delays once the project enters the implementation phase, which is among the largest urban renewal exercises in the country.