The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has started the bidding process to restore 17 of mumbai's historic century-old drinking water fountains, also known as pyaavs. The plan was first proposed in 2018, and since then, BMC has planned the repairs for several years.
Mumbai has around 30 historic pyaavs classified as heritage structures. Many of them have disappeared over time. These fountains were built in the 18th and 19th centuries near parks, markets, and commercial areas. They provided essential water access to both humans and animals.
Most pyaavs were built in the 19th and 20th centuries. They were funded by wealthy philanthropists, often in memory of loved ones. So far, four pyaavs have been repaired in Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo at Byculla, and one in Shivaji Park. QR codes will be added to highlight the historical significance of the fountains.
Seventeen more are now planned for restoration. Some will be dismantled and moved to nearby locations because of unsafe conditions and footpath encroachments. Construction is expected to start next year at the cost of around INR 16 crore. A contractor is expected to be chosen within a month.
Some of the historic pyaavs scheduled for repair include the pyaav under the Masjid Bunder Flyover, Sir Cowasji Jahangir's Fountain at Dhobi Talao, pyaavs at Mohammad Ali Road, Don Tanki, G. Manokji Patel, Chaar Nall in Dongri, the Seth Devram Keshawji Contractor Pyaav in Matunga, Nawab Ayaz Ali, and the M.V. Parulkar Fountain in Hindu Colony.
Pyaavs are different from modern taps because they were designed to continuously discharge water through spouts. Their designs reflect local materials like limestone, basalt, and malad. Each fountain shows Mumbai's cultural and architectural heritage. The restoration project will preserve the city's history while bringing the fountains back to life.