The Bombay High Court dismissed a petition challenging the Maharashtra government's decision on the Dharavi slum redevelopment project in Mumbai. The court upheld the tender awarded to Adani Properties Private Limited, stating that the grounds raised in the petition lacked force. The Adani Group emerged as the highest bidder for the project in the 2022 tender process, after the previous tender in 2018 was cancelled.
Adani Group Wins Dharavi Redevelopment Bid Amidst Controversy
Background
The Dharavi slum in Mumbai is one of the largest slums in Asia, housing over 1 million people. In 2018, the Maharashtra government launched a tender for the redevelopment of Dharavi, which was later cancelled due to allegations of irregularities.
Adani Group's Bid
In 2022, a new tender was floated, and Adani Properties Private Limited, a subsidiary of the Adani Group, emerged as the highest bidder. However, the bid was challenged in court by several groups, including local residents and former bidders.
Bombay High Court Upholds Bid
On January 11, 2023, the Bombay High Court dismissed the petitions challenging the bid. The court stated that the grounds raised by the petitioners lacked force and that the tender process had been conducted in a fair and transparent manner.
Significance of the Project
The redevelopment of Dharavi is a major infrastructure project that aims to transform the slum into a modern and sustainable township. The project includes the construction of residential buildings, commercial spaces, parks, and infrastructure.
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