Mumbai’s iconic Marine Drive is set for a transformative facelift as civic authorities prepare to revamp the promenade into a heritage-themed pedestrian corridor aimed at enhancing walkability and sustainability. The project, led by the city’s municipal body, is part of a broader urban development vision that seeks to blend heritage preservation with modern, eco-friendly urban design.
Civic officials have confirmed that Marine Drive, a UNESCO-nominated heritage precinct, will undergo aesthetic and functional improvements to make it more accessible and enjoyable for pedestrians. With the newly operational coastal road easing vehicular pressure, the adjoining footpaths have been widened to accommodate greater pedestrian flow, setting the stage for a grander, uninterrupted walkway stretching north towards Girgaon Chowpatty.
A key feature of the upgrade includes the removal of obstructive hoardings and barricades, clearing visual clutter and improving safety along the promenade. Additionally, the existing stalls and peripheral structures will be repainted in a unified colour scheme that thematically reflects Mumbai’s cultural fabric, adding visual coherence while preserving the site’s character.
Officials say the aim is to create a continuous heritage corridor that promotes zero-carbon mobility and inclusive public space. The Marine Drive makeover, they added, goes beyond beautification, it’s about celebrating Mumbai’s legacy while encouraging eco-friendly commuting. The plan also seeks to integrate the earlier proposed ‘Freedom Walkway’ from 2021, which featured basalt paths and murals narrating India’s independence journey, with Girgaon Chowpatty as the central link.
The heritage walkway strategy also advances Mumbai’s commitment to building sustainable, inclusive, and gender-neutral public infrastructure. Walkable cities have long been linked to increased community engagement, better public health outcomes, and lower carbon emissions. By reclaiming prime public spaces for pedestrian use, Mumbai is embracing global best practices in urban design. If implemented holistically, could become a model for other Indian cities looking to modernise without compromising their historical and cultural integrity.
