Dharavi Redevelopment Project: Residents Receive Symbolic Plastic Key As Helpline Reminder For Missed Survey

Mumbai: Dharavikars were taken by surprise on Wednesday morning when they found plastic keys delivered to their doorsteps. Initially confused by the unusual delivery, residents soon discovered it was part of a unique awareness campaign under the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP).

The symbolic plastic key, imprinted with a helpline number, served as more than just a token — it carried a powerful message. The initiative aimed to urge residents who missed the survey to call on the helpline number either for survey or for addressing any other query.

“The survey is almost ending and barring few sectors like the Kumbharwada, Compound 13 and a few tenements on private lands and other small pockets, most tenements have completed their household survey. Over 86,000 tenements are already part of the redevelopment scheme. Through this initiative, the DRP is giving everyone access to the helpline number so that residents who missed the survey for various reasons can call in case they can’t find a survey person nearby,” a DRP official said.

The DRP helpline number printed on each key allows residents another lifeline to get their tenements surveyed. “This is part of a broader effort to ensure no resident is left behind in this ‘housing-for-all’ project,” the official said.

“This is the key to our dream,” said one resident, visibly moved by the gesture.

“At first, there were rumours that the plastic key and what does it mean,” shared Natesan Nadar, a local idli vendor. “But once we understood the message, we were relieved. This is a good move by the government to spread awareness. Now people who missed the survey can easily reach out through the helpline,” he said.

Farid Khan, another resident, echoed similar sentiments. “Dharavi is a vast area. Sometimes mistakes happen. Houses may be missed or residents may not be home during the visit. This campaign helps address those gaps and ensures that the survey process is more accurate and inclusive.”

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As the redevelopment drive progresses, the symbolic key has become more than plastic. It has become a token of hope and a critical lifeline for thousands, a sign that their long-awaited dream of a better home might soon become reality.