Neeta Samata B SRA CHSLDharavi, Mumbai

Dharavi is situated in Mumbai and is home to one of the world’s biggest slums. The location existed long before India achieved Independence and was inhabited by both Indian and European workers before Independence.

Brief Description – Dharavi

Dharavi colony was founded in 1884. It was originally obstructed by fishermen when the region still comprised streams and wetlands. When the marsh began to fill in owing to natural and anthropogenic causes, it became appealing to migrant labourers from South Mumbai and elsewhere. Whilst poor rural Indians came to Mumbai, the region developed.

What’s Great About Dharavi?

• Dharavi gives a cheap and inexpensive choice to individuals who migrate to Mumbai to earn a livelihood in a city where housing rates are among the highest in the world.

• Dharavi is near the Bandra Kurla Complex, one of Asia's richest commercial districts. Its closeness to Mumbai's two major suburb train lines makes commuting to work easier.

What’s Not Great About Dharavi?

• Dharavi has been hit by several diseases and natural calamities, including a severe plague in 1896 that killed more than half of Mumbai's population. Like many others, the slum lacks sanitation, sewers, safe drinking water, roads, and other essential utilities.
• The Dharavi slums are plagued by several issues, including noise, water, and air pollution, as well as a lack of sewage and drainage infrastructure.  

Physical Infrastructure and Liveability Index

Dharavi is a multi-religious, multi-ethnic, and diversified community. Dharavi is considered one of India's most literate slums, with a literacy rate of 69%. Like many others, the slum lacks sanitation, sewers, safe drinking water, roads, and other essential utilities. However, most of these ideas failed due to a lack of financial and political backing. The government proposed upgrading the slum into a contemporary township complete with suitable homes, retail malls, hospitals, and schools. While the project is expected to cost $2.1 billion.

Surprisingly, there is only one toilet for every 1400 Dharavi people. Fortunately, the homes have consistent water and electrical supplies. According to estimates, around 430 people dwell on every acre of land in the Dharavi slum.

Social Infrastructure

Dharavi is said to be one of the most educated slums in the country, generating revenues between $650 million and $1 billion. The region is home to approximately 5,000 businesses and 15,000 single-room factories. Recycling is a major industry here as well.  

• Schools nearby-

Some nearby schools include the Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Vidya Mandir, B.S.I.A.S School, and the Kamaraja Memorial English High School. 

• Healthcare nearby-

Some nearby healthcare units include Urban Healthcare and Sarv. Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. 

• Railway station nearby-

The nearest railway station from Dharavi is Mahim Junction, which is only 2kms.

• Markets nearby-

Several markets are available in Dharavi, with leather being the most coveted in the area. 

Nearby Dharavi – Distance Calculator

Dharavi is a sprawling neighbourhood between Mumbai's two major suburban train lines, the Western and Central Railways. This neighbourhood's zip code is 400017. 

Approximate Distance from Current Dharavi to 

Goregaon – 20.5 Kilometres

Kurla – 7.1 Kilometres

Malad – 21.8 Kilometres 

Andheri west – 17.6 Kilometres

Approximate Commute Time from Current Dharavi to 

Goregaon – 45 minutes

Kurla – 20 minutes 

Malad – 53 minutes

Andheri west – 55 minutes

Approximate Cab Fare from Dharavi to 

Goregaon – Rs 350 to Rs 400

Kurla – Rs 120 to Rs 140

Malad – Rs 520 to Rs 570

Andheri west – Rs 280 to Rs 320

Transport Services Availability

There are several transit choices in Dharavi, Maharashtra, to enable commuting easy for locals. A plethora of forms of transportation is available for getting from one location to Dharavi. There are taxis, trains, buses, autos, and other kinds of transportation available and these modes of transportation are constantly available, making it simple to travel without difficulties.

How Do People Rate Dharavi?

Dharavi is home to a large number of people, who appreciate its focus on recycling, its industrial might, and its levels of education. Of course, living and working conditions can be better, although the area is still comparatively affordable to live in. 

How to Visit Dharavi in Maharashtra?

There are several ways to commute to Dharavi from Mumbai, including taking a cab or boarding the train. To go from one area to Dharavi in Maharashtra, one must select the most suitable modes of transportation.

• One can have a 15-20 minute walk to Churchgate station from Colaba, and from there, you may buy a ticket and ride a slow train to Dharavi (Mahim station). 
• One can board a train from Juhu to Vile Parle or Santa Cruz Station and move to a slow train to Mahim Junction.

Dharavi Comparison

A random fact to consider- Elephanta Islands in Mumbai is 7.41 times larger than the Dharavi slum area.