Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has criticised the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) over its decision to spend another INR 2.9 crore on the renovation of the Mumbai Mayor's official residence, alleging misuse of public funds.
In a post on X titled "Kharche Pe Charcha!", Thackeray accused the BJP-led civic administration of spending Mumbaikars' money to fulfil the "whims" of the city's mayor. He questioned the need for another round of renovation when the heritage bungalow had already undergone refurbishment recently.
Thackeray also criticised the proposal to install sound barriers in what he described as a relatively quiet locality and referred to reports of a demand for a new official vehicle for the mayor, alleging unnecessary expenditure at a time when public resources should be prioritised elsewhere.
The controversy comes after the BMC floated a INR 2.9-crore tender for additional works at the heritage mayoral residence in Byculla. The civic body had already spent around INR 2.4 crore on renovating the bungalow earlier this year. If the latest proposal is approved, the total expenditure on the property within four months will exceed INR 5.3 crore.
Former Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar also questioned the proposal, stating that she never experienced noise pollution at the residence during her tenure. She also sought an explanation for the proposed container-based conference hall outside the heritage structure.
The new tender includes installation of bio-absorbent sound barriers along E.S. Patanwala Marg, construction of a container-based conference room, interlocking pavements, stormwater and sewage drainage works, water supply and utility upgrades, water tanks, renovation of domestic staff and security quarters, and electrical and mechanical works.
Responding to the criticism, the Mayor's Office clarified that the tender was not sought by Mayor Ritu Tawde and that she was unaware of it. It stated that the proposed works are not for the interior of the residence but for the surrounding premises and the adjoining Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan complex. The office added that the project is being handled by the BMC's heritage maintenance department in accordance with heritage conservation norms.
According to senior civic officials, the heritage bungalow's original architectural character will be preserved while essential infrastructure improvements are carried out. The proposal also includes a temporary container-based conference facility for official meetings and improvements to the drainage system around the property.
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