Waters Economics was a key team member of one of the winning entries in Reinventing Dharavi: An International Ideas Competition. The international competition called for professional planners, economists and designers to generate new ideas and strategies to improve the long term social, economic and physical development of Asia’s largest slum Dharavi, Mumbai.

Dharavi, home to about a million people, is world famous for its thriving entrepreneurial economy and community spirit. Although sometimes described as a model for future development, Dharavi has all of the usual problems of slums including unsanitary living conditions, unsafe workplaces, and a high prevalence of disease.

In a project team led by UDP International, Waters Economics was responsible for economic, financial, and governance aspects. The team recommended a range of economic and financial mechanisms for a phased formalisation of business and dwelling purchase, whilst recognising the importance of maintaining livelihood and affordability. The team was commended for dealing with important issues and the comprehensive coverage of the submission.