The transformation of Mumbai’s iconic seafronts has become a contentious issue amid the ongoing construction of the Coastal Road project. Once cherished for its breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, the city’s coastal stretches are now largely obscured by infrastructure developments.
This shift has sparked significant discontent among residents and urban planners. Historically, Mumbai’s seafronts, from Chowpatty to Marine Drive, offered expansive views of the sea, cherished by many as a quintessential part of the city’s charm. The double-decker buses on Route 123, which once provided unobstructed glimpses of the coastline, symbolised a simpler, more accessible connection to the sea. However, the ongoing Coastal Road project, aimed at reducing travel time for a select few, has altered this dynamic.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has embarked on constructing a 29-kilometre coastal road, creating approximately 111 hectares of new land. Despite the promise of new amenities such as promenades, parks, and jogging tracks, the construction has obscured once-vibrant seafronts. Areas like Marine Drive now contend with unsightly fibre-glass barriers, while the Haji Ali seafront has been almost entirely concealed from public view. Architect Alan Abraham and a coalition of nearly 70 local architects have raised concerns about the project’s impact on public access to the seafront. They argue that the current design prioritises vehicular infrastructure over accessible public spaces. Abraham’s recent correspondence with BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani outlined suggestions for integrating these new spaces into Mumbai’s urban fabric, proposing continuous seafront corridors and universal access to newly created public areas.
Despite these appeals, the BMC has stated that it is too late to amend the project’s design. Critics contend that this stance reflects a broader disregard for public interest. The opportunity to enhance Mumbai’s urban landscape with green spaces and uninterrupted sea views appears to be slipping away, replaced by exclusive access afforded only to those who can afford the tolls or premium properties along the coastal road. As the Coastal Road project advances, the pressing question remains: will Mumbai’s seafronts be revitalised in a manner that benefits all residents, or will they remain a distant memory, eclipsed by infrastructure meant for the privileged few? The BMC’s response to these concerns will determine whether the city’s cherished sea views are preserved for future generations.
