25 March,2026 04:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Ritu Tawde. Pic/BMC
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has set a 15-day deadline for submitting conceptual plans for the proposed development of four major entry gates to Mumbai at Dahisar, Vashi, Airoli, and Mulund. The ambitious project aims to enhance the city's global identity, boost tourism, and strengthen civic pride among residents.
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde, who chaired a high-level review meeting at the BMC headquarters on Wednesday, directed officials to prioritise the Airoli entry gate project, which will serve as a benchmark for the remaining three locations.
The Mayor emphasised that the Airoli project will be executed on priority and developed as a model for Dahisar, Vashi, and Mulund. The initiative will include not only the construction of aesthetically designed entry gates but also comprehensive area development, beautification, and the creation of tourism infrastructure around these locations.
Officials have been instructed to ensure time-bound execution, with detailed concepts to be finalised and submitted within the stipulated 15-day period.
The review meeting brought together senior civic officials and representatives from multiple government agencies to discuss key aspects of the project. These included finalisation of exact locations, alignment with existing and proposed infrastructure works, and integration of green spaces and beautification elements.
Discussions also focused on inter-departmental coordination, obtaining necessary approvals and no-objection certificates (NOCs), and the appointment of consultants to support planning and execution.
Among those present were senior BMC officials, including Additional Municipal Commissioners Dr. Vipin Sharma and Dr. Avinash Dhakne, City Engineer Ramchandra Kadam, Municipal Architect Umesh Nagarkar, and other key department heads.
Representatives from external agencies such as CIDCO, the Public Works Department, and the Salt Commissioner's office also participated in the discussions, underlining the multi-agency nature of the project.
Highlighting the financial strategy, Mayor Tawde said the project is expected to be supported through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding. Discussions with potential stakeholders are already underway, and once the project blueprint is finalised, funds will be mobilised to ease the burden on the municipal corporation.
The Mayor underscored that environmental considerations will be an integral part of the project, ensuring sustainable development. In addition to enhancing the city's visual appeal, the initiative is also expected to generate additional revenue for the BMC upon completion.
Concluding the meeting, Tawde reiterated that the project has the backing of the state government and stressed the importance of completing it within a defined timeline. She urged all departments to work in close coordination and take prompt action to ensure successful implementation.
"This project is in the larger interest of Mumbai and must be executed with sensitivity and efficiency," she said.
