Residents of Malabar Hill, supported by activists, are opposing the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) decision to lease a 2,432-square-metre plot near Ramabai Ambedkar Marg for private development. The plot, originally allocated for a public garden, currently hosts a disused BEST substation. Activists argue that converting the land for commercial use violates its green and heritage designation. BMC has issued a tender with a base price of INR 545 crore to fund infrastructure projects. Residents, led by activist Zoru Bathena, have submitted a letter urging BMC to restore the garden, emphasising the area's environmental and heritage significance over commercial interests.
Residents of Malabar Hill, alongside city-wide activists, have voiced opposition to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) decision to lease a 2,432 square-metre plot next to Ramabai Ambedkar Marg for private development over a 30-year period. The plot, currently hosting a Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport (BEST) substation, was originally allocated by the state government to BMC for a public garden, and residents contend that it should be restored to that use.
On the final day for bid submissions, over 60 residents submitted a letter to BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, expressing their opposition. Juhu-based activist Zoru Bathena, who led the effort, argued that while substations can be built on land designated for public gardens, this does not imply BMC can convert the land for commercial benefit. Bathena noted that BMC's lack of need for a garden should not allow for its redirection towards profit-driven activities.
A report on this matter first emerged in October, detailing BMC's plans to lease the land, identified as plot CS 439, to support infrastructure funding. The proposal also included additional plots in Crawford Market and Lower Parel. A subsequent tender issued in early November indicated a base price of INR 545 crore for the Malabar Hill plot, which includes the disused substation, a 256-square-metre recreation garden, and a 5,623-square-metre green belt. According to BMC's tender, BEST agreed to return the land due to the dilapidated state of the substation.
In their letter, Bathena and residents urged BMC to honour the plot's intended garden designation. However, a BMC official responded, asserting that the plot was classified as reserved for a receiving station, adjacent to but separate from the land designated for a public garden.
Bathena contested the official's statement, asserting that the plot lies within the green slope of Malabar Hill and the heritage area of the Hanging Garden, where tall structures and development are restricted by the Development Control Rules. He called for BMC to withdraw the auction plans, maintaining that such an auction violates the area's heritage and green precinct status.
In conclusion, the residents' appeal highlights the tension between preserving green spaces and the city's drive for infrastructure funding, with residents insisting that the area's environmental and heritage value should take precedence.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
