Mumbai's Iconic Kala Ghoda Beautification Project Phase 1 Nears Completion With New Plaza, Wider Walkways And Pedestrian-Only Plans

The first phase of the Kala Ghoda beautification project is now nearing completion with works being carried on in an area of 3,443 sq.m at Dr. V. B. Gandhi Road, Rutherford Road, B. Bharucha Road, Saibaba Road and Ropewalk Lane.

This includes wide footpaths for pedestrians, sign boards, basalt-granite path-ways and a new plaza at B. Bharucha Road junction. The estimated cost of the project is around INR 10 crore.

Infrastructure improvement plans

Last year, the BMC had announced to make the Kala Ghoda area a pedestrian zone on Saturdays and Sundays. This beautification project is being implemented in two phases. The first phase, which includes five roads, is now in its final phase.

On Thursday, December 11, Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani inspected the work in the presence of former Chief Secretary and Chairman of Maharashtra Finance Commission Nitin Kariyar. Under this project, heavy vehicles will be banned from entering the area. Modern barricades will be installed on all four sides of the area to create a safe, pedestrian-friendly environment.

The new plaza at B. Bharucha Road Junction is taking shape. It will feature a striking blend of rough and black granite and basalt flooring. It will have tables and chairs for residents and tourists, where they can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and local food culture.

New look of the plaza

“This heritage area, famous for its museums, galleries, boutiques and cafes, will soon see a wide, redesigned pedestrian walkway, signboards, attractive basalt-granite pathways and a new public plaza at B. Bharucha Road Junction,” said an A-Ward official.

Landscaping and Cultural Amenities

In the second phase, a portion of K. Dubash Road opposite the closed Rhythm House will be converted into a plaza, while the road opposite the Jehangir Art Gallery will be kept two-way.

This plaza will also have basalt and granite flooring. The area will be beautifully landscaped with plants like Bakul, Variegated Pandanus, Heliconia Sitacorum, Purple Heart and Golden Durante.

The five roads to be redeveloped - Mahatma Gandhi Road, K. Dubash Road, Nagindas Road, Chamber of Commerce Lane and Forbes Street - have been barricaded.

The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, which is held here every year, is considered an integral part of the cultural identity of the area.