In light of recent alterations to Bandra Fort Garden that have reportedly compromised its original charm, residents of Bandra have shifted their focus to protecting the greenery at Mehboob Studio Circle. Concerned citizens sent a formal letter to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Wednesday, urging them to leave the garden near Mehboob Studio untouched and to reconsider the proposed beautification plans that may lead to reduced green cover.
Community Acts
Residents are taking preventive measures to safeguard the Madhukar Kulkarni Udyan at Mehboob Studio Circle in Bandra West. Local citizens rallied together to submit their letter to the BMC, emphasizing the need for consultation with all stakeholders before proceeding with any developments in the area. Signed by nearly 130 individuals, the letter expressed opposition to potential “beautification” efforts that might reduce greenery or introduce concrete elements into the space, urging officials to preserve the garden in its current form.
Proposal Raises Concerns
Senior BMC officials confirmed that the Madhukar Kulkarni Udyan had recently been handed over to the ‘I Love Mumbai’ foundation for general upkeep. Earlier this month, Bandra MLA Ashish Shelar led a ceremonial ‘bhoomipujan’ for a beautification project, describing it as an opportunity to refresh the area’s historic look. However, after spotting posters announcing the project, residents voiced their concerns about the potential impact on greenery, particularly in light of recent changes at Bandra Fort Garden, which some claim has seen a reduction in natural cover due to increased concreting.
Garden Declaration
The letter submitted by Bandra’s residents reiterated that the Madhukar Kulkarni Udyan requires no further beautification, plant replacements, or cementing, as it is already well-maintained. Additionally, locals highlighted that the garden falls under CRZ II regulations, classifying it as a no-development zone. They argued that the project could disrupt the garden’s natural beauty and emphasized the importance of preserving the limited green spaces within the city.
No Greenery Will Be Compromised
Indian Express report stated that according to a BMC spokesperson, while the project includes proposals to reduce some of the vegetation within the garden’s 1,000-square-meter area, no approvals have been granted for tree removal or structural changes. The spokesperson explained that the ‘I Love Mumbai’ foundation was assigned only for routine clearing and maintenance and reassured residents that no significant impact on green cover was planned. The residents’ concerns echo frustrations with recent updates at Bandra Fort Garden, where renovations have reportedly reduced the green landscape and altered the historic site’s aesthetic appeal. With many Bandra locals fearing similar changes at Mehboob Studio Circle, they continue to advocate for transparent and inclusive discussions around urban development projects that could affect Bandra’s valued green spaces.