Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has entrusted Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) with the development of 53 hectares of reclaimed open space along the city’s Coastal Road.
This initiative aims to enhance urban livability by integrating green infrastructure and sustainable design into the city’s fabric. The designated area, stretching from Priyadarshini Park to Worli, is part of the larger 111 hectares reclaimed during the Coastal Road Project. While 26.5 hectares were allocated for the road and interchanges, and 14.5 hectares for a seawall, the remaining 70 hectares are earmarked for green and recreational spaces. Of this, 53 hectares will be developed by RIL, marking one of the most ambitious urban greening projects in Mumbai’s history.
RIL emerged as the sole bidder meeting the BMC’s criteria in the Expression of Interest (EoI) process initiated in January 2025. The agreement entails RIL designing, developing, and maintaining the open spaces for an initial period of 30 years, with a potential extension of another 30 years. The company is expected to present detailed design proposals within the next three to four months, following which the development work will commence. The envisioned open spaces will encompass gardens, parks, water bodies, cycling and pedestrian pathways, and possibly commercial activities, subject to Supreme Court approval. This development aligns with Mumbai’s broader objectives of creating eco-friendly, sustainable, and equitable urban environments.
However, the inclusion of commercial activities has sparked concerns among residents, who fear potential privatization of public spaces. An online petition advocating for the creation of an urban forest along the Coastal Road has garnered over 40,000 signatures. Proponents suggest dividing the area into zones featuring native and salt-tolerant vegetation, aiming to establish a climate-resilient green corridor that enhances biodiversity and mitigates urban heat. In response to public sentiment, BMC officials have indicated that such proposals will be considered during the planning phase. The integration of community input is seen as vital to ensuring that the development meets the needs and aspirations of Mumbai’s residents.
Notably, approximately half a hectare of the reclaimed land has been excluded from RIL’s development purview. This includes parcels claimed by the Breach Candy Club and Breach Candy Hospital, both asserting historical rights over these areas. While the hospital has received approval to convert its portion into a parking facility, the club’s claim is still under review. Despite these exclusions, no built-up constructions will be permitted on these plots due to existing land-use reservations. The broader Coastal Road Project, with an estimated cost of ₹13,000 crore, aims to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance connectivity along Mumbai’s western coastline. The integration of green spaces into this infrastructure project reflects a commitment to sustainable urban development, balancing the city’s growth with environmental stewardship.
As Mumbai continues to evolve, the collaboration between BMC and RIL on this project serves as a model for public-private partnerships in urban development. The success of this initiative will depend on transparent planning, community engagement, and a steadfast commitment to creating inclusive and sustainable public spaces.
Also Read : Mumbai 20 infra projects delayed over coastal map issues
