07/06/2025
Ethically, I was a bit reticent about visiting Dharavi in Mumbai which is Asia’s largest slum, housing over 1 million people in a space just over 2.39 km2. But I found a tour with the first female tour guide from the area, a brilliant young woman called Pooja (picture 3) who gave us a unique glimpse into everyday life in the settlement. It completely challenged any stereotypes I had, showcasing recycling, manufacturing, garment production, soap, leather and plastics - industries that bring in $1 billion a year, producing a self sustaining ecosystem that keeps living costs low for its diverse migrant population.
This incredible productivity is offset by extreme poverty and poor conditions which has earmarked the area for redevelopment into a modern township; something many of the locals are against. It’s prime real estate and there are fears many of its people will be displaced (along with all the skills, talent and magic that makes the place what it is). Unfortunately, this is an all too familiar story…
But if you get the chance to visit before this happens, you have to do it, there so much to learn and admire from how people support each other; that’s something money can’t buy.
