BMC Approves Transfer of BEST Depots for Dharavi Redevelopment Despite Opposition

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) general body on Thursday approved the transfer of two BEST bus depots to the Adani-led Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP), despite strong objections from opposition corporators who accused the civic body of handing over valuable public land for a private redevelopment project.

The approval allows the transfer of 11.58 acres occupied by the Dharavi and Kala Killa bus depots. In return, Navbharat Mega Developers Private Limited (NMDPL), the special purpose vehicle implementing the project, will construct two multi-storey bus depots for BEST at alternate locations within Dharavi.

The Dharavi Redevelopment Project is a large-scale urban renewal initiative aimed at redeveloping one of Asia's largest slums. The project is led by the Adani Group in partnership with the Maharashtra government. The transfer of the depots is seen as a critical step to free up land for the project's first phase.

Criticising the decision, Congress corporator Ashraf Azmi alleged that the BMC was transferring prime civic plots for private work. He argued that the depots are public assets and should not be handed over without adequate compensation and transparency.

However, BMC officials justified the move, stating that the new depots would be built to modern standards and that the transfer is essential for the redevelopment of Dharavi, which aims to provide better housing and infrastructure for its residents. The officials also noted that the project includes affordable housing and amenities for slum dwellers.

The opposition has vowed to challenge the decision in court, claiming that the BMC did not follow due process and that the land valuation was not properly assessed. The BMC, however, maintains that all procedures were followed and that the redevelopment project will benefit the city.