BMC Introduces Monthly Pass for Malabar Hill's Elevated Nature Trail in Mumbai
In a move aimed at enhancing accessibility for residents, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a monthly pass option for locals visiting the Elevated Nature Trail at Malabar Hill. This initiative comes nearly a year after the trail's inauguration, offering a cost-effective solution for daily walkers.
Details of the Monthly Pass and Visitor Information
The monthly pass is priced at Rs 750 and is valid for one person to visit once per day. According to a BMC official, this pass is designed to benefit locals who wish to use the trail regularly for activities like daily walks. The official stated, "Monthly passes will benefit those locals who may want to use it for their daily walks. We are also receiving requests for film shoots at the space."
The trail, inspired by Singapore's Tree Top Walk, is a first-of-its-kind project in Mumbai. It spans a total length of 485 meters with a width of 2.4 meters and includes a sea-viewing deck that provides panoramic views of the sea. The facility features a wooden elevated walkway with wooden railings and support columns, reinforced with steel for added strength.
Visitor Capacity and Current Trends
The Elevated Nature Trail can accommodate a maximum of 200 people per slot, with a total of 16 slots available daily from 5 am to 8 pm. This allows for up to 3,200 visitors per day. Initially, after its inauguration, the trail saw high demand with up to 250 visitors per slot, but this has since stabilized to around 100 per slot on weekdays. However, weekends continue to attract considerable interest.
For those not opting for the monthly pass, the entry fee is Rs 25 for Indians and Rs 100 for foreigners per day. The BMC official noted that the reduced weekday numbers might be due to initial curiosity waning, but the trail remains a popular destination, especially for weekend outings.
Additional Features and Future Prospects
Beyond recreational use, the trail has garnered attention for other purposes. The BMC has started receiving requests to use the space for film shoots, highlighting its scenic appeal. The sea-viewing deck, in particular, offers a dedicated spot for visitors to enjoy breathtaking views, making it an attractive location for both leisure and media productions.
This development underscores the BMC's efforts to promote urban green spaces and enhance public amenities in Mumbai. The introduction of the monthly pass is expected to encourage more locals to utilize the trail regularly, fostering a healthier lifestyle and greater community engagement with the city's natural attractions.
