Dharavi Redevelopment Project Moves Forward as BEST Begins Handover Process for Dharavi & Kalakilla Depots

Mumbai’s ambitious Dharavi Redevelopment Project has entered another major phase as the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking has initiated the process of handing over the Dharavi and Kalakilla bus depots for redevelopment. The move marks a significant step in the large-scale transformation of Dharavi, one of Mumbai’s most closely watched urban redevelopment projects.

The latest development highlights the accelerating pace of Mumbai’s redevelopment push, with major infrastructure and transport assets now being integrated into the broader Dharavi transformation plan. As large-scale housing and urban infrastructure projects continue expanding across Mumbai under the city’s redevelopment-focused administrative framework, the Dharavi project is increasingly emerging as one of the biggest urban renewal exercises currently underway in India.

BEST to Hand Over 11.58 Acres for Redevelopment

The Dharavi and Kalakilla depots together occupy approximately 11.58 acres and fall within the redevelopment zone of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project being implemented by Navbharat Mega Developers Private Limited (NMDPL).

According to officials, the proposal for handing over the depots is expected to be presented before the BEST Committee soon.

The redevelopment process comes nearly two years after the proposal was first discussed, indicating that the project is now moving into an active implementation phase.

Temporary Depot to Be Built for Bus Operations

To ensure uninterrupted public transport services during redevelopment, the developer has proposed temporary arrangements for bus operations.

According to BEST officials, NMDPL will construct a temporary makeshift depot on 6.17 acres of the existing land parcel. The temporary facility will be capable of accommodating around 145 buses.

Officials stated that the temporary depot is aimed at maintaining continuity in BEST operations while redevelopment work progresses across the larger site.

The arrangement is expected to help minimize disruption to bus services in the area during the transition phase.

BEST Working on Arrangements for Remaining 288 Buses

While the temporary depot will provide capacity for 145 buses, officials acknowledged that operational planning is still underway for the remaining fleet.

The two existing depots currently accommodate 288 buses in total, creating a significant logistical challenge during the redevelopment transition period.

According to BEST officials, the undertaking is currently preparing operational strategies and alternative parking arrangements to manage the remaining buses while construction work is underway.

Despite the temporary capacity constraints, officials emphasized that uninterrupted bus services remain a key priority during the redevelopment phase.

Modern Multi-Storey Depots Planned Under Redevelopment Model

As part of the long-term redevelopment plan, two permanent multi-storey depots with modern infrastructure are proposed at separate locations.

The new depot model is designed to optimize land use efficiency in Mumbai’s highly congested urban landscape.

Under the proposed structure:

• Lower floors will be used for bus parking and transport operations
• Upper floors will accommodate offices and commercial spaces

Officials believe this integrated infrastructure model will help maximize utility of limited urban land while modernizing transport facilities.

The first proposed depot will be built on 8,602.42 square metres and will have parking capacity for approximately 200 to 275 buses.

The second depot, spread across 10,544.15 square metres, will also accommodate up to 275 buses.

Remaining Land to Be Handed Over After Depot Construction

Sources indicated that the remaining 5.41 acres of land will be handed over for redevelopment only after the permanent depot structures are completed.

This phased redevelopment strategy is aimed at balancing infrastructure redevelopment with continuity of public transport operations.

Officials stated that the staggered handover process is necessary to ensure smooth transition and uninterrupted commuter services during the construction period.

Project Timeline Estimated Between Five and Seven Years

According to BEST officials, construction of the permanent depots is expected to take approximately five to seven years after the official work order is issued.

Officials also confirmed that penalty provisions have been included in the development agreement in case of project delays beyond the agreed timeline.

The agreement related to the Dharavi Redevelopment Project and Slum Rehabilitation Authority was signed with the Adani Group in June 2024.

Proposal Awaits Final Approvals

The depot redevelopment proposal currently awaits statutory approvals from both the BEST Committee and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

Once approvals are granted, the redevelopment process is expected to move into the next implementation phase.

The integration of major BEST transport infrastructure into the Dharavi Redevelopment Project signals the scale and complexity of the transformation currently being planned across the Dharavi region.

With modern transport depots, phased redevelopment planning, and long-term infrastructure upgrades now being incorporated into the project framework, the Dharavi Redevelopment Project continues evolving into one of Mumbai’s most significant urban redevelopment initiatives.