Andheri's reclaimed flyover space to become public recreation zone

Construction work underway beneath the Teli Galli flyover in Andheri, where a long-promised public recreation and sports hub is taking shape. Pics/By Special Arrangement

More than a year after abandoned vehicles and scrap were cleared from beneath the Teli Galli flyover in Andheri following residents' complaints, work has finally begun on converting the reclaimed space into a public recreation zone.

The project, promised by local MLA Murji Patel after the clean-up, will include sports facilities, a botanical garden, an open gym, and children's play areas. While residents say work has resumed after brief delays, the BMC is yet to share an official timeline for completion.

What is planned?

According to Patel's Facebook post dated July 2, the project will include:
>> Botanical garden
>> Skate park
>> Half basketball court
>> Cricket turf
>> Pickleball court
>> Bouldering area
>> Open gym
>> Children's play area
>> Study space
>> Seating areas
>> HBT dispensary
>> Public toilets

Work begins on promised project

Residents have now noticed construction activity beneath the flyover.

According to locals:
>> Boundary walls are being built
>> Work on sports facilities reportedly began around three weeks ago
>> Survey and measurement work resumed after a brief lull

Dhaval Shah, Lokhandwala Oshiwara Citizens Association

Then and now

A year ago
Residents had complained about:
>> Abandoned vehicles under the flyover
>> Dumped scrap and garbage
>> Fire hazard from fuel left in abandoned vehicles
The complaints gained urgency after a fire broke out beneath the flyover.

Action taken
>> BMC cleared the area within a week
>> Abandoned vehicles and scrap removed
>> MLA Murji Patel promised to redevelop the space into a public recreation zone

What MLA Murji Patel says

Murji Patel said the project is being designed to avoid the shortcomings seen at similar under-flyover developments.
"It is going to turn into one of the most unique under-flyover projects in the city. We are paying special attention to security through the use of proper lighting and surveillance systems. Dust and pollution control measures are also being planned, as these have been cited as major concerns at similar projects," the MLA said.

What the MLA posted

In a social media post announcing the project, Patel wrote: "We've now secured the necessary funding and work on this project has officially been inaugurated. This has been a dream project of mine. We envision creating a vibrant recreational and sports destination for all age groups. Across Andheri, we will continue reclaiming neglected, abandoned and misused public spaces and transform them into meaningful public assets."

Resident Speak

Rohit Jain, resident
‘Since the clean-up last year, the area has largely remained free of abandoned vehicles and garbage, which is the biggest achievement. Construction activity has now started for the activity corner and garden that was promised.'

Dhaval Shah
Member, Lokhandwala Oshiwara Citizens Association
‘The work has started, and boundary walls are coming up. From what I know, work on the pickleball court and other sports facilities began about three weeks ago. There was no activity for the last nine or ten days, but contractors visited the site today to take measurements, so it looks like work is picking up again.'