The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has unveiled plans to transform the stretch between Mantralaya and Badhwar Park into a pedestrian-friendly pathway, aiming to enhance the urban pedestrian experience in Mumbai’s bustling A ward.
However, the project has elicited mixed reactions from local residents and activists, who are urging the civic body to address pressing infrastructure concerns before embarking on new initiatives. At the core of the project lies the vision to revamp nearly 3 kilometres of urban space, encompassing footpath development, installation of street furniture, placement of signages, and overall beautification efforts. While phase I of the initiative focuses on the Mantralaya to Badhwar Park corridor, BMC has articulated ambitions to extend the pedestrian-friendly pathway all the way to Cuffe Parade, catering to a wider demographic. Despite BMC’s enthusiasm for the project, concerns have been raised regarding its prioritisation amidst existing infrastructural challenges. Critics argue that resources should first be allocated to resolving issues such as dug-up footpaths and hawker encroachments, which significantly impede pedestrian mobility and safety across the city. A senior official from the A ward affirmed that the project has obtained sanction but awaits the issuance of purchase orders before commencing work. The delay, attributed to the prevailing code of conduct, underscores the bureaucratic hurdles hindering timely execution. As discussions unfold, stakeholders emphasise the need for a balanced approach that addresses both immediate concerns and long-term urban planning objectives. While the pedestrian pathway initiative signifies BMC’s commitment to enhancing urban accessibility, its effectiveness hinges on holistic integration with broader infrastructural improvements and community feedback mechanisms.
In navigating the complexities of urban development, BMC faces the imperative of striking a delicate balance between addressing immediate needs and fostering sustainable, pedestrian-centric urban environments. With citizen engagement at the forefront, the success of the pedestrian pathway project will be measured not only by its physical transformation but also by its ability to foster inclusive, people-centric urban spaces in Mumbai.
