Mumbai, Nov 05: The residents of Dharavi, the largest slum conglomerate in Asia, and heir to the British throne Prince Charles came face to face as the royal dignitary spent over an hour witnessing the poverty-stricken life in the dingy hutments. Charles, who spent nearly an hour with the residents was curious to know how can a family of nine live in a 50 square feet room. The crown prince asked questions ranging from their privacy, hygiene conditions and basic amenities like water and electricity.
Before wrapping up his nine-day tour to India, Charles visited Rajiv-Indira Slum Rehabilitation Scheme in Dharavi. The project is supported by Department for International Development (DFID) in partnership with Society for the Promotion of Area Resource Centres (SPARC) and UK-based Homeless International through the community-led infrastructure finance facility.
Magasasay awardee A Jockin, who has played a major role in rehabilitation of slum dwellers, took the royal visitor around and explained to him the community development programme.
Garment worker, Saiduddin Farooqui, whose 225 sq feet house was visited by Charles was in a exalted state of mind. Majid, the 18-year-old son of Farooqui, could not hide elation and said he would cherish the proud moment.
Charles gave autograph to the Farooqui family members and asked them questions about their house, to which they have shifted two years ago from a slum.
Bureau Report