Mumbai will have a Smart City prototype when it launches the Bhendi Bazaar Redevelopment Project at an estimated cost of Rs 40 billion.

The 16.5 acre project is estimated to take 10 years to complete, according to officials of Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT) which is working on the redevelopment plan around Mumbai’s popular shopping destination, has got all the clearances to start construction.

SBUT, a community-led organisation, is behind this project to give a makeover to Bhendi Bazaar, which lacks adequate infrastructure. It is being used as a pilot for the government’s city rejuvenation plan.

The project will cover 3,200 residential units and 1,250 commercial tenants. In the first phase, about 4 acres of area will be redeveloped over a period of three years.

Mayors of Indian cities are seeking inputs from the Bhendi Bazaar project for redeveloping areas under their administration. Students from many foreign universities are in touch with SBUT to understand the masterplan.

SBUT CEO Abbas Master said: “This is the moment we were all waiting for. With the support of state and central governments we have received all the permissions and approvals for sub clusters 1 & 3. People of Bhendi Bazaar will see their dream being transformed into reality soon”.

The project is looking at state-of-the-art sustainable development plan with 17 new buildings, wide roads, modern infrastructure, more open spaces and organised commercial areas.

The creation of new infrastructure and access to technology are expected to infuse growth and open new avenues for the businesses in the area.