Author: Mehrotra Rahul
Publisher: Harvard University Graduate School of Design
Year: 2017
Volume: 4 of 8
Pages: 388
Source: Received from Rahul Mehrotra
Subject: Urbanisation
Sub-Subject: Urban Planning
Keyword: Housing Crisis, Urban Density, Slums, Urban Fabric, Dongri, Jammat Khana, Affordable Housing, Socio-economic Divides, Urban Planning
Shelf: C1R1
Contents: Introduction, Mapping Dongri, Propositions, Appendix
Abstract: Mumbai’s housing crisis is driven by soaring real estate prices, rapid population growth, and insufficient affordable housing investment. By 2013, it was India’s most unaffordable housing market, with 57% of households in single-room units and 40% living in slums. Policies promoting higher Floor Area Ratios for redevelopment have increased density but worsened infrastructure strain and fragmented communities. The focus is on Dongri, a dense, trade-centered inner-city neighborhood with historic ties to the Ismaili community. Students will redesign individual blocks to create inclusive, livable spaces that balance metropolitan goals with local social fabric, addressing affordability, density, and resilience.