Mumbai is preparing to unveil the first phase of its much-anticipated Coastal Road promenade on 15 July, offering residents a spacious 15 metre-wide stretch complete with cycling and walking paths. The initial 4.75 km (3.05 km Priyadarshini Park to Haji Ali plus 1.7 km Baroda Place to Worli Bindumadhav Thackeray Chowk) marks a vital step toward relieving urban congestion and enhancing green public spaces. The full 7.5 km promenade is slated for completion by September.
Strategically aligned with the existing north and south‑bound lanes inaugurated last year, this section features four underpasses—Amarsons Garden, Mahalaxmi Temple, Bindu Madhav Chowk, and Worli Dairy—for seamless access. Paid parking at Bhulabhai Desai Road and Bindu Madhav Thackeray Junction, along with planned bio‑toilet facilities, ensures user convenience. Spearheaded by BMC engineers, the promenade is integrated with cycling corridors and thought‑fully planted trees, positioning it as one of India’s lengthiest seaside walkways. Its development—at an estimated cost of ₹35 crore—is part of the broader ₹13,000 crore Coastal Road initiative, underscoring civic commitment to equitable, sustainable urban infrastructure.
However, coastal dynamics pose structural risks. Heavy wave action during June’s unusually high 4.75 metre tide displaced tiles and damaged the parapet wall near the Priyadarshini Garden tunnel. BMC officials signal ongoing weatherproofing measures, including reinforced parapets and storm‑resilient pavement, to withstand monsoonal surges. From a civic planning lens, the promenade represents a multi‑faceted intervention. It enhances open green spaces essential for mental and physical wellbeing, encourages non‑motorised transport, and shifts the city toward eco‑friendly mobility. Additionally, its development in phases reflects adaptive governance—balancing flow management, cost, and environmental safeguards.
Looking ahead, full access by September will offer Mumbaikars a scenic corridor linking iconic landmarks—from Marine Drive through Worli to Haji Ali—while easing beachfront access pressure on existing promenades. With tree canopy, dedicated pathways, and commuter amenities, this initiative aligns with zero‑carbon city strategies and reflects gender‑neutral, inclusive public space design. While immediate challenges remain in ensuring structural resilience and floodproofing, the promenade signals a transformative leap for Mumbai’s urban realm—blending sustainable infrastructure with enhanced quality of life.
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