Mumbai's Omkar Realtors has begun delivering homes in the world's tallest rehabilitation towers at Dhobi Ghat, Mahalaxmi. Around 1000 families have received new homes and retail units in Phase 1 of the project. Developed under the Maharashtra government's slum rehabilitation scheme, the initiative aims to house 16,000 slum residents across phases. The project, in collaboration with Piramal Realty, focuses on laundry-related labour and includes luxury housing. Omkar has a strong track record in slum redevelopment, delivering over 3,000 houses in a recent project. The iconic Dhobi business faces modernization challenges, adapting to water-efficient and healthier techniques.
In a significant achievement for housing in Mumbai, Omkar Realtors has started delivering new homes to families in the tallest rehabilitation towers at Dhobi Ghat in Mahalaxmi. The first phase of the project, located in Saibaba Nagar, Mahalaxmi, has provided homes to around 1000 families and included 19 retail units. This initiative is part of the Maharashtra government's slum rehabilitation plan and aims to house about 16,000 residents from slum areas over multiple phases.
Dhobi Ghat is famous for being one of the world's largest outdoor laundries, with many residents working in laundry-related services. This project covers a large area of 12 acres in a prime location in South Mumbai's Mahalaxmi, offering luxury housing with views of the racecourse and Arabian Sea. The project is a collaboration between Omkar and Piramal Realty and is designed to primarily benefit people involved in laundry services, such as dhobis and those engaged in dyeing, drying, transportation, and ironing. Importantly, the project maintains a respectful distance from the heritage site while enhancing the natural surroundings.
The development sets a new standard for rehabilitation projects, featuring modern construction, dedicated spaces for community welfare centres, society offices, and educational facilities. Notably, the project includes 16 elevators from the renowned German brand Schindler, a feature typically seen in upscale housing. Omkar has been a prominent player in slum redevelopment and is committed to delivering high-quality housing solutions.
The company recently achieved a milestone by delivering over 3,000 houses in its Bhoiwada (Parel-Sewri) project. As technology advances and automation become more common in the washing and drying process, traditional methods are becoming less prevalent. Dhobis are adapting to these changes by learning new techniques that use less water and reduce health risks, as the younger generation moves away from the traditional family business.