Everyone remembers the vibrant yet congested canvas of Bhendi Bazaar of the past, but the new rendition comes alive with the grand vision of Saifee Burhani Upliftment Project (SBUP), India’s largest cluster redevelopment project in the heart of Mumbai city.

With the sole intention of creating a healthy and happier neighbourhood, the project is on its path to realizing the dreams of its people, allowing both commercial and residential lives to thrive to its fullest potential with high standards of living and holistic growth.

This ambitious redevelopment project comprises of 16.5 acres of land, which has over 250 existing buildings, housing 3200 families and 1,250 shops, All of these are to be incorporated into this state-of-the-art sustainable development vision with new buildings, wide roads, modern infrastructure, open spaces and highly visible, well-connected commercial areas. The mosques and religious structures are retained and enhanced to keep the cultural ties between the land and people intact.

The project is envisioned to meet the present and future socio-economic needs. Master Planning of the area is done using ‘best principles’ of Urban Planning to create a development plan which could serve as a model for the entire city and other urban renewal projects across the country.

People, their needs, welfare of the neighbourhood, and business interests, along with an aesthetic design and urban principles, were the brief requirements given by SBUT to develop this master plan. The area is divided into nine sub-clusters for better management and functionality. Majority of the land mass is set to be used for rehabilitating existing tenants. Modern and Islamic style of the buildings at the street, along with arches, jallis, and lattice work throughout creates a unique identity for this new neighbourhood.

“The vision for this transformed place creates a modern urban area that will not only set a precedent to urban renewal projects in Mumbai; but also provide impetus for other urban renewal projects in India, and throughout the world.”

The project is planned holistically to promote a sustainable way of living. The entire area is divided into functionally appropriate spaces, and the buildings rise in height from south to north to minimise heat openings, while maximising air circulation and natural lighting around the apartments.

Vast space is available for open areas, green spaces, playground(s) and other recreational facilities. Wide roads are to replace the narrow lanes that can accommodate tree lined footpaths, allowing a smooth flow of vehicular traffic. Best principles for traffic management have been incorporated in this neighbourhood design.

The area is going to have its own environment-friendly and efficient sewage treatment plant, solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and garbage disposal units. Each of the nine planned sub-clusters are independent; with provisions for their own solid waste and sewage management, power provision, and plenty of open spaces.

The project aims to be ‘resource-neutral’. It has already been pre-certified 'Gold' by the Indian Green Buildings Council.