Dharavi's Recycling Economy: Uncertainty Amidst Mumbai's Redevelopment Ambitions

Dharavi's recycling economy processes most of Mumbai's plastic waste through thousands of small units, employing up to 250,000 workers. The Adani Group's redevelopment project aims to modernize the area but threatens this informal network. Workers like Sirajuddin sort hundreds of kilograms daily for minimal wages. Business owners fear relocation will raise costs and break vital supply chains. Migrants living in workshops face uncertain futures as plans lack clarity on affordable housing and workspace provisions.