Mumbai’s Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) is once again at the centre of a heated debate over traffic management. Mangal Prabhat Lodha, the Guardian Minister for Mumbai Suburbs, has called for the removal of the cycle track installed in BKC, arguing that the space should be repurposed to alleviate “unbearable” traffic congestion. During a meeting with MMRDA Commissioner Sanjay Mukherjee on Monday, Lodha suggested that the cycle track be relocated to a nearby plot, as the current infrastructure is reportedly underutilised.
The cycle track in question, part of a 13km project sanctioned by MMRDA in 2011, extends 9km in BKC’s G-block. Despite the investment, concerns have been raised about its effectiveness. Lodha highlighted that the recent closure of the Sion bridge on August 1 has exacerbated traffic issues in the area, further straining the already congested roads. An MMRDA official noted potential complications with removing the cycle track, citing the storm water drainage line’s integration between the track and the footpath. The removal of the track would necessitate significant adjustments to the drainage infrastructure, potentially complicating the process.
Accompanying Lodha during his visit to BKC was a delegation from the Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB). The group emphasised the urgent need for a comprehensive redesign of BKC’s road network, asserting that the current traffic conditions are severely impacting their operations. In a letter to MMRDA, BDB underscored the difficulties faced by their stakeholders due to traffic congestion, citing a vehicular influx of nearly 9,000 as a critical issue. The BDB also stressed the necessity for improved public transportation solutions. “Our own bus service, while helpful, requires capacity enhancements,” said a BDB representative. Additionally, they advocated for dedicated bus parking to reduce reliance on autorickshaws, which contribute to the road congestion.
Laxmi Diamonds’ managing director described the traffic situation around BKC as “awful,” with lengthy delays even for short distances. The proposed solution includes increasing the frequency of buses to alleviate the traffic bottlenecks and improve efficiency for both employees and visitors. Lodha’s proposal to dismantle the cycle track highlights ongoing challenges in balancing infrastructure developments with practical traffic solutions. As BKC continues to experience severe congestion, the effectiveness of these proposed changes remains to be seen.
