BMC to Restore 200-Year-Old Heritage Bandra Talao
In a significant move to restore one of Mumbai’s oldest and most cherished heritage sites, the municipal corporation has announced plans to rejuvenate the 200-year-old Bandra Talao (lake). The BMC has appointed a consultant to oversee crucial water testing and to devise a detailed methodology for dewatering, desludging, and beautifying the site, aiming to bring back its former glory.
The proposed restoration project is estimated to cost ₹20 crore, and the BMC will submit the proposal to the state government for approval. The work will be funded through grants from the 15th Finance Commission. According to a senior BMC officer, the primary objective of the project is to rejuvenate Bandra Talao, ensuring that it not only becomes a tranquil space for citizens but also preserves Mumbai’s cultural heritage. Spanning 7.5 acres, the Bandra Talao is a historical landmark featuring walkways around the water, making it an ideal spot for leisure and community engagement. However, over the years, it has fallen into neglect, with the lake suffering from deterioration and lack of maintenance. The restoration is seen as a critical step in preserving both the natural beauty and historical significance of this iconic location.
The restoration work will be undertaken in two phases. The first phase will focus on the essential tasks of dewatering and desludging, addressing the immediate issues of the lake’s water quality and structure. Phase two will involve beautification efforts, transforming the lake into a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing space for visitors. Deputy Municipal Commissioner Vishwas Mote confirmed that BMC is actively working on the project, with meetings already held to discuss the next steps. The restoration plan comes after local Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad wrote to BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, urging urgent attention to the upkeep of the Grade 2 Heritage site. Gaikwad highlighted that the lake, once a serene spot for community engagement, had become a symbol of neglect and decay. The restoration of Bandra Talao is a much-needed intervention to revitalize one of Mumbai’s historical treasures, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the city’s landscape for future generations.
