A citizens' collective in Mumbai has announced plans to formally challenge a recent civic proposal that seeks to remove a long-standing reservation for public utilities on a prime plot in the upscale Malabar Hill area. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued a public notice inviting suggestions and objections to its decision to delete the existing reservation meant for an electricity transmission facility and a BEST bus depot.
What is the BMC Planning?
The controversy centers around a plot measuring 2,475 square meters located on Altamont Road in the D ward. According to an official, the BMC has initiated the statutory process to amend the sanctioned Development Plan 2034. The plan involves cancelling the current amenity reservation marked for an 'Electricity Transmission and Distribution Facility' and a 'BEST Bus Facility'. Once deleted, the plot would be reclassified as a residential zone, potentially opening it up for private development.
Citizens' Group Raises Alarm
The Aamchi Mumbai, Aamchi BEST (AMAB) group is spearheading the opposition. Ranganath Satavase, a representative from AMAB, stated that they are closely studying the issue. "We are studying this issue as the BMC plans to dereserve the area meant for a receiving station/bus services and make the plot available for residential purposes. We may file an objection in a few days," Satavase said.
He highlighted several critical concerns. First, there is significant ambiguity about who would take over the project or the plot once it is earmarked for residential use. Second, and more urgently, the move puts at risk the housing of BEST employees. "We fear that the staff quarters for BEST senior employees, residing on this plot, may be vacated," Satavase added. The plot currently houses a few buildings with approximately 35 flats allotted to officers.
Potential Implications and Unanswered Questions
The proposal has sparked fears of privatization of prime public land. Sources within AMAB indicated that if the plot is leased out, the lessee might be permitted to redevelop the property in the future if the BMC certifies a need for it during the lease period. This clause adds a layer of uncertainty about the long-term use of the land.
Senior BEST officials were not available for comment when approached. The lack of official clarification from the transport utility has further fueled concerns among residents and civic activists. The statutory process, initiated by the BMC's public notice, is now open for objections, setting the stage for a potential confrontation over the future of this valuable civic asset.
The outcome of this dispute could set a precedent for how other reserved amenity plots are treated in Mumbai's ever-evolving urban landscape, where the pressure for residential development often clashes with the need for essential public infrastructure.
