MUMBAI: The Mumbai Coastal Road (MCR) project is set to make significant strides in urban development with the commencement of park and promenade construction this November. The initiative, guided by the master plan developed by AECOM, will introduce approximately 70 hectares of new open space along the city’s western coastline, spanning from Priyadarshini Park to Worli.
The newly designated areas will be segmented into three distinct zones, blending lush green landscapes with modern recreational facilities. Of the total area, around 70% will be dedicated to green cover, featuring extensive landscaping and natural habitats, while the remaining 30% will be developed with paved walkways, dedicated cycle tracks, and a 7.5-kilometre-long promenade. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has outlined that the parks will be equipped with various amenities catering to diverse recreational needs. Facilities will include cycling tracks, skating zones, yoga areas, tennis and badminton courts, and expansive fields for football.
Additionally, provisions for senior citizens and children will ensure the parks offer multi-generational engagement. The promenade will feature 20 underpasses spaced every 400 metres, enhancing connectivity and accessibility across the entire stretch. Located at the Worli end, the promenade will include steps leading directly to the water, providing residents with a closer interaction with the sea, especially during low tide periods. Access to these new facilities will be facilitated through nine main entry points, including Setalvad Lane, Tata Garden, Mahalaxmi, Lotus Jetty, Haji Ali juice centre, Atria Mall, and Madraswadi in Worli. The parks will operate daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, while the promenade will remain accessible round-the-clock for visitors to walk, cycle, or enjoy the coastal view at any time.
This transformative project traces its roots back to 2011 when a joint technical committee, led by former municipal commissioner, proposed a coastal freeway or link road to alleviate congestion and create open spaces through land reclamation. The vision, now becoming reality, underscores Mumbai’s commitment to enhancing urban green spaces and improving quality of life for its residents. In a related development, the BMC plans to partially open one arm of the coastal road arch bridge, linking it with the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, on September 12. Initially, only the southbound carriageway will be operational, easing traffic congestion by accommodating northbound traffic from Marine Drive towards Bandra, while southbound access will remain at Worli.
