The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has once again ignited controversy with its proposal to build a large LED sphere at the Bandra Reclamation promenade. The project, which comes on the heels of the cancellation of the Mumbai Eye project, has faced strong opposition from local residents who fear that it will commercialize the seaside area and violate environmental regulations.
The planned LED sphere, which is expected to be 50 feet in diameter, will be located near the Bandra Worli Sea Link (BWSL). MSRDC claims that the structure will reshape the city’s skyline and represent Mumbai as a futuristic city. However, local residents argue that the project is a blatant attempt to commercialize the area, which is protected under environmental regulations. According to the 1999 Ministry of Environment and Forests regulation, any residential or commercial development in the Bandra Reclamation area is strictly prohibited. The MSRDC’s proposal, which includes advertising screens, solar panels, and a vertical garden, clearly violates these regulations.
The project has also raised concerns about the impact on the environment. Residents fear that the LED sphere will disrupt the natural habitat of the area and contribute to light pollution. Additionally, the construction of the structure could damage the fragile ecosystem of the Bandra Reclamation.
This is not the first time that attempts have been made to commercialize this part of the Bandra Reclamation area. In 2017, floatels were introduced near the Sea Link toll plaza. Despite one of them sinking in May 2018, some floatels remain operational outside the monsoon season.
The MSRDC’s proposal for the LED sphere is a stark reminder of the ongoing battle to protect the natural beauty of Mumbai’s coastline. The local residents’ opposition to the project highlights the importance of preserving these precious green spaces for future generations.
