South Mumbai gardens to get green facelift, BMC assures no tree loss

Nehru Garden in Churchgate, among four parks slated for a facelift under BMC’s horticulture plan. Pics/Sayyed Sameer Abedi, Imaging/Uday Mohite

Four prominent South Mumbai gardens are set for a green facelift with new plantations, landscaping, and bamboo fencing. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has clarified that no existing trees or plants will be removed or damaged during the work. The upgrade will cover Cooperage Garden, Nehru Garden, BS Somani Garden, and Walter D'Souza Garden.

Walter D'Souza Garden at Marine Lines, one of four South Mumbai gardens set for a BMC-led green upgrade with bamboo plantations and landscaping

Except for Cooperage Garden, the other three gardens underwent maintenance and upgradation over the past year. This year, the BMC has planned focused horticulture work to enhance greenery and improve environmental conditions.

Cooperage Garden at Nariman Point, included in BMC's plan to enhance greenery and improve soil health

According to an A ward official, the project is designed to help cool surrounding areas and reduce pollution. Soil quality will be improved to support faster plant growth, while bamboo plantations will aid carbon sequestration and enrich soil health, benefiting surrounding vegetation.

BS Somani Garden at Cuffe Parade, set for bamboo plantations and landscaping upgrades

Authorities speak

An A ward official
"We have planned extensive horticulture work suited to the area, footfall, and climatic conditions. These gardens are popular among residents and tourists, so they have been selected in the first phase. Bamboo has been chosen as it grows quickly and helps reduce pollution. Soil health will be significantly improved to ensure long-term plant growth and sustainability."

Which are the gardens?

. Cooperage Garden on Madame Cama Road near Mantralaya, known for its wooden gazebo
. Nehru Garden in Colaba
. Walter D'Souza Garden
. BS Somani Garden in Cuffe Parade

What is planned?

. Plantation of 3-foot-tall bamboo across the gardens
. Removal of 15 cm of topsoil, replaced with a mix of red soil and cow dung to improve fertility and reduce pollution
. Addition of Korean or Mexican carpet lawns, known for dense, dark green cover, cooling effect, and drought resistance
. Plantation of colourful shrubs

How does bamboo help?

Bamboo is a fast-growing carbon sink, capable of absorbing up to 60 tonnes per hectare, while also improving soil quality.

Cost of the project: Rs 25 lakh