India, Aug. 31 -- In a ruling with major implications for Mumbai's urban landscape, the Supreme Court recently upheld a Bombay high court decision that unlocks 150 acres of salt pan land in Mulund East for the rehabilitation of Dharavi residents who do not qualify for on-site housing under the Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP).

Eligibility for rehabilitation is based on the cut-off date of settlement. Residents who settled in Dharavi before January 1, 2000 are entitled to free 350 sq ft homes within Dharavi itself. Those who moved in between January 1, 2000 and January 1, 2011 may be allotted 300 sq ft homes at alternative sites such as the Mulund salt pans.

The apex court dismissed an appeal by Dadar resident and lessee Vikas Walawal...