Residents of Breach Candy have recently advocated for the creation of indigenous and coastal forests in the open spaces along Mumbai’s Coastal Road, opposing any commercial developments in these areas.
This call to action comes in response to a townhall meeting organised by the Breach Candy Residents’ Forum, where local opinions were gathered on the future development of these public spaces. In a letter addressed to the municipal commissioner, the residents highlighted their desire for the development of ‘Mahashantivan’—a proposed natural monument that would feature a forest aimed at combating climate change. This initiative aligns with the Mumbai Climate Action Plan, which was released in 2022 and advocates for evidence-based planning and implementation strategies to address environmental challenges.
The letter detailed a vision for the Coastal Road’s open spaces, urging the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to focus on creating a “sacred forest” that would provide ecological benefits and serve as a lasting asset for Mumbai. Residents emphasised the need for soft earth paths, walking and cycling trails to enhance ground porosity and minimise the impact of urbanisation. They also recommended using natural materials and thoughtfully designed lighting to ensure safety and reduce light pollution, while avoiding the installation of lawns, artworks, and multi-coloured surfaces introduced in previous beautification efforts.
A forum member noted, “The spaces should be developed to prevent any commercial activities. We do not want installations such as a Ferris wheel that could detract from the natural environment we aim to create.” This green push follows a recent online petition launched by residents from Breach Candy, Worli, and Nepeansea Road, which urged the BMC to reject plans for hoardings along the Coastal Road. The petition argued that such installations would disrupt the aesthetic appeal and potentially distract drivers, though the BMC has confirmed that no hoardings are planned for the reclaimed land.
The residents’ proposal underscores a broader movement within the city to prioritise sustainable and eco-friendly development practices over commercial ventures. The focus on creating green spaces rather than commercial installations reflects a growing consensus on the need to integrate environmental considerations into urban planning, aiming to enhance the quality of life and resilience against climate change impacts in Mumbai.
