The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is gearing up to launch its third seafood plaza in the city, this time at Khar Danda Koliwada, located in Khar West. The new facility, part of the BMC’s ongoing initiative to promote local seafood and empower women from the fishing community, will give priority to fisherwomen from Women Self Help Groups (WSHG) for managing and operating seafood kiosks.
The BMC has opened a window for public feedback and objections regarding the project, which residents must submit in writing by December 16. This step comes as a precautionary measure to avoid issues similar to those faced by the first seafood plaza in Mahim Koliwada. There, internal disputes among WSHG members disrupted operations, prompting the civic body to intervene. The feedback process will ensure that such problems do not arise at the new Khar West plaza. Any objections submitted after the deadline will not be entertained. The proposed seafood plaza will be located behind the Sherely Village bus stop along Carter Road in Khar, a prominent spot near the coast. The plaza will host mobile restaurants that will serve authentic Koli cuisine, available to customers on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The BMC plans to ensure that fisherwomen from the Khar Danda area and other local WSHGs are given preference to operate these kiosks, thus enhancing their income opportunities and promoting traditional culinary practices.
A notice board near the proposed site has been put up by the BMC, inviting residents to share their objections or recommendations regarding the project. This move is part of the civic body’s broader goal to make these seafood plazas a success, while also fostering a connection with the local community. This new seafood plaza in Khar West will follow the establishment of similar facilities in Mahim and Worli Koliwadas. However, these earlier projects have faced operational challenges. The Mahim plaza, launched in November 2023, encountered internal conflicts and political interference, as well as disruptions due to seasonal closures between June and September. To address these concerns, the BMC has now instructed WSHG members to resume operations at the Mahim plaza. With the lessons learned from these earlier ventures, the BMC hopes to ensure smoother operations for the Khar West plaza, providing a platform for local fisherwomen and promoting the unique seafood culture of Mumbai’s Koliwadas.
