India’s urban population is projected to hit 52% by 2050, yet 65 million people still live in slums and urban land is expanding 2.5 times faster than population growth. And only a coordinated, inclusive redevelopment approach can sustainably meet future urban demands.
With Indian cities grappling with overcrowding, informal settlements, and crumbling infrastructure, report by Primus Partners, in collaboration with the Griharmony Redevelopment Stakeholders Federation (GRSF) emphasizes the urgent need for shifting from fragmented plot-level projects to integrated, area-based redevelopment anchored in community participation and global best practices.
Supported by experts and former bureaucrats, this initiative aims to ignite a bold policy shift at both state and national levels. “This is not just about rebuilding spaces, it’s about rebuilding purpose. Redevelopment is the only sustainable path forward,” said Shri Gautam Chatterjee, Former Chairman, MahaRERA & Chairman, GRSF.
Key proposals include replacing piecemeal development with zonal transformation through local area plans, creating inclusive rental housing for the 47% migrant population, establishing Urban Redevelopment Funds through PPPs and land value capture, and institutionalizing citizen engagement via Ward Committees and digital tools.
“We must shift from fragmented, plot-level interventions to a people-centric, integrated model of redevelopment. This report brings together global learning and actionable ideas tailored for India’s unique urban challenges,” added Aarti Harbhajanka, Co-Founder & MD, Primus Partners.
Highlighting examples from Singapore, São Paulo, and London, the report offers a 2047 roadmap for building economically vibrant, green, and socially equitable Indian cities. It calls for embedding sustainable design, walkability, green infrastructure, and transit-oriented development in all redevelopment initiatives.
