In a significant escalation of opposition to the controversial 22-storey robotic parking tower planned for Matunga station, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has allied itself with local residents in their protest. The project, which is set to be constructed on a 1,518 square-metre plot adjacent to Matunga station, has sparked growing concerns over safety, traffic congestion, and its potential impact on the area’s infrastructure.
In a letter addressed to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), MNS general secretary demanded the immediate cancellation of the parking tower proposal. The letter pointed to the severe congestion around Matunga station, which witnesses daily foot traffic of around 30,000 passengers. The station is already burdened with limited infrastructure, including a single exit, and is surrounded by key facilities such as five to ten schools and colleges, in addition to fruit and vegetable markets that draw large crowds. The MNS, echoing the concerns of local residents, highlighted the risk that the parking tower could pose to the safety of commuters in case of an emergency.The letter questioned how passengers would safely evacuate the station during a disaster, given the area’s overcrowded conditions. Furthermore, it pointed out that both the BMC and the fire brigade had not sufficiently considered these risks when approving the project.
The proposed mechanised multi-level parking tower, which has received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Central Railways, is being spearheaded by former BJP corporator Nehal Shah. However, residents have raised alarms over the project’s real intent, alleging that it serves the interests of a developer rather than addressing genuine parking needs. The citizens have argued that there are already four to five parking lots in the area, rendering the new tower unnecessary. Despite these objections, the BMC, as of December 21, was reportedly “rethinking” and “evaluating” the project in response to the growing outcry. The outcome of this review could significantly impact the future of the tower, which has already stirred considerable controversy over its potential safety hazards and its broader implications for the area’s urban landscape.
