Mumbai’s 7.47 km-long promenade ready, awaits inauguration
After years of anticipation and numerous delays, the long-awaited sea-facing promenade along the Mumbai Coastal Road has finally been completed. The massive stretch, spanning 7.47 kilometers in length and 20 meters in width, runs parallel to the Coastal Road from Priyadarshini Park to the Worli-end of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. Although the promenade is now ready, its grand opening remains pending, leaving the public eagerly waiting to access this new public space.
The Mumbai Coastal Road project, which has been in the works since 2013, has been plagued by delays and controversies. However, the latest development is a significant milestone in the project’s progress. The promenade is designed to provide a seamless walking and cycling experience for Mumbaikars, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. The project also aims to enhance the city’s infrastructure, improve connectivity, and boost economic growth.
The 7.47 km-long promenade is a marvel of engineering, featuring a 3-meter-wide pedestrian path, a 2-meter-wide cycling track, and a 15-meter-wide parking area. The promenade is also equipped with amenities such as public restrooms, seating areas, and streetlights. The project has incorporated sustainable features, including rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient lighting.
Despite being ready, the promenade remains off-limits to the public. The reason for the delay in its inauguration is unclear, but it is believed that the authorities are still finalizing the necessary paperwork and permissions. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), responsible for the project, is expected to announce the date of the promenade’s opening soon.
The delay has raised concerns among locals and environmentalists, who are eager to experience the promenade’s scenic views and recreational facilities. The promenade’s closure has also affected the livelihoods of street vendors and vendors who set up stalls along the promenade, waiting for the opportunity to serve the public.
The Mumbai Coastal Road project has been criticized for its slow pace and numerous delays. The project was initially expected to be completed in 2018, but it has been plagued by issues such as land acquisition, environmental clearances, and funding problems. The project’s cost has also ballooned from an initial estimate of ₹12,000 crore to over ₹20,000 crore.
Despite the setbacks, the project’s completion is a significant achievement for the city. The promenade is expected to become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique experience of the city’s coastline. The project’s impact on the city’s economy and environment is also expected to be significant, providing new opportunities for businesses and community development.
The Mumbai Coastal Road project is a testament to the city’s commitment to infrastructure development and urban planning. The project’s completion is a step towards creating a more livable and sustainable city, providing Mumbaikars with new public spaces and recreational areas. As the city awaits the promenade’s grand opening, it is hoped that the authorities will soon announce a date for its inauguration, allowing the public to experience the beauty and amenities of this new public space.
