Mumbai's Carter Road Promenade Faces LED Hoarding Controversy, Residents Protest
In Mumbai, a significant controversy has erupted over plans to install LED hoardings along the popular Carter Road promenade in Bandra. The Bandra West Residents Association (BWRA) has taken a firm stand against this proposal, sending formal letters to multiple authorities including the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB).
A Vital Public Space Under Threat
The association emphasized that the promenade, which has been built and meticulously maintained by local residents over the past quarter-century, represents an indispensable public open space. It serves as a crucial recreational and social hub, attracting thousands of daily visitors including walkers, joggers, senior citizens, families, and tourists from across Bandra and beyond.
Over the decades, this waterfront area has evolved into a rare, accessible open space within Mumbai's densely built urban landscape. The BWRA's letter stated clearly, "This is a clear and blatant violation of the principles meant to safeguard public open spaces."
Historical Context and Current Concerns
The residents' association highlighted that any previous sponsorship or advertising during their tenure was implemented with strict adherence to defined sizes and locations, always respecting the promenade's essential character. Their primary concern now revolves around the potential recurrence of such advertising intrusions due to the absence of clear regulatory guidelines.
Specifically, the BWRA cautioned that Mumbai's beautiful promenades, many of which fall within restricted Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) limits, lack proper regulations governing hoardings and advertisements. "Fortunately, the local Danda Maritime Board office swiftly took down the columns after our dialogue with them. However, we fear this may be attempted again as there are no clear guidelines/regulations," their letter explained.
Contractual Arrangements and Official Responses
The maintenance and beautification contract for Carter Road promenade was awarded to private firm Star Electricals by the MMB nearly a year ago under a structured Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The company claims to have invested approximately Rs 90 lakh toward improving various aspects including upkeep, safety measures, and infrastructure along the promenade.
In response to inquiries, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) clarified that it has no involvement in the maintenance contract, confirming that the agreement was signed exclusively between the contractor and MMB. Attempts to reach the Maharashtra Maritime Board for official comment on this developing situation did not yield any response at the time of reporting.
Broader Implications for Urban Governance
This controversy highlights larger issues concerning urban governance, public space management, and environmental regulations in metropolitan areas. The conflict between commercial interests seeking advertising revenue and community groups protecting public recreational spaces underscores the need for transparent policies and community consultation in urban development decisions.
As Mumbai continues to balance development with preservation of its limited public spaces, the Carter Road promenade case serves as an important precedent for how coastal areas within CRZ limits should be managed to protect both environmental integrity and community interests.
