Maharashtra government allocated 256 acres of salt pan land in Mulund, Kanjurmarg, and Bhandup for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) to help rehabilitate slum dwellers.
Environmental concerns have been raised, but officials say the land is safe, as it was decommissioned by the Salt Commissioner of India over 10 years ago.
The land is no longer under Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules or flood buffer status since the Eastern Express Highway was built.
The project aligns with Mumbai's Development Plan 2034, which designates salt pan land for affordable housing.
The Union government has already used similar lands for infrastructure projects, like Metro Line 6's car shed and an Excise Department complex.
The DRP CEO emphasized the land remains with the state, and the project's goal is a slum-free Mumbai.
Construction will only start after obtaining necessary environmental clearances and ensuring full regulatory compliance.
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