Citizens flag commercialisation of Bandra promenade

MUMBAI: The proposed beautification of the Bandra Reclamation Promenade has raised red flags, with citizens alleging that it is merely a cover for a closed amphitheatre planned at the site. Pointing to lack of transparency, they allege the ₹5-crore project could pave the way for commercialisation of the waterfront promenade, a much-needed public open space used by people from across the city.

In a letter to the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) and chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, Vidya Vaidya, chairperson of the Bandra Reclamation Area Volunteers Organisation (BRAVO), has urged the authorities to withdraw the no-objection certificate (NOC) issued for the project being executed by MHADA’s slum board and cancel the proposed beautification work being carried out near the.“I Love Mumbai” installation.

Pointing to the proposed construction of a permanent steel structure, 15-20 metres wide, the citizens’ group has alleged that the project would convert the open space into a concert and performance area, forever altering the character of the promenade. The structure would also violate Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms, which restrict construction in the area.

The letter also claims the proposed structure would extend beyond the retaining wall and encroach into the bay area. This could amount to encroachment into the Mahim Creek and potentially violate several environmental and coastal regulations.

Citizens have also drawn attention to a provision for permanent spaces to store equipment associated with the proposed facility. This indicates that the project is not merely a beautification exercise but could facilitate the permanent commercial use of the promenade, they argue.

Apart from obstructing the uninterrupted view of the skyline, the proposed structure would change the character of the public space from an open promenade into a permanently covered amphitheatre, said Vaidya. “Has the Slum Authority started a business of beautifying promenades instead of rehabilitation of slums,” the letter questioned.

The citizens’ group also said that allowing the project to proceed could set a precedent for commercial exploitation of the other two promenades in Bandra. It said government agencies should not alter spaces designated for public use without considering planning decisions taken through established processes involving town planners, architects and citizens.

The group has therefore called for the immediate cancellation of the proposed beautification project.

A senior official with MSRDC, which owns the land, said the work currently underway includes the construction of a covered shed as part of the “additional beautification” along the pathway. “The previous facilities on the promenade will remain,” he said. “The Slum Board under MHADA has proposed some beautification works, and after they are completed, the promenade will be opened to the public.”