Maharashtra Government to explain Central Park plan to Mumbai legislators amid concerns

BJP MLC Pravin Darekar, who raised concerns about project. FILE PIC/SAYYED SAMEER ABEDI

Concerns over the possibility of Central Park becoming a restricted or semi-private space were voiced in the Legislative Council on Tuesday, following which the government said it would make a presentation on the project to all members concerned.

The iconic Mahalaxmi Racecourse in Mumbai is set to be redeveloped into a sprawling 295-acre urban green space to be known as Central Park, under an ambitious makeover plan that will introduce entertainment zones and an underground sports complex. Envisioned as the largest central park in an Indian city, the project will draw about 125 acres from the existing racecourse, while the remaining 170 acres will come from land reclaimed during the Coastal Road project.

Concern over the proposal was not limited to the Opposition; the ruling BJP also raised questions about the development plans. Shiv Sena (UBT) MLCs Sachin Ahir and Anil Parab, BJP MLC Pravin Darekar, and Congress MLC Satej ‘Bunty' Patil expressed apprehension that the project could deprive Mumbai residents of an important public space.

What's the fear?

>> Once the park is developed, entry will be restricted to a few
>> Helipad on site will be kept private and with restricted usage
>> Park area will be concreted

Some demands

All members concerned should be given a detailed presentation of the project.
The government should ensure that the public is allowed to use this place and given access.
Architects and experts who have raised red flags should be taken into confidence before going ahead with the proposed development of the park.

Deputy chairperson's directives

Deputy Chairperson of the Legislative Council Neelam Gorhe directed the government to take note of the concerns raised by members and address them accordingly.

Sarcastic swipe

During the discussion, Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Anil Parab, referring to ruling party MLC Darekar expressing concerns about the plan, stated that even if the state government allayed the fears of its ally, it would be enough for the Opposition.

Presentation plan

Replying to the queries and concerns on behalf of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who also holds the urban development portfolio, minister Uday Samant assured members that even if a helipad is constructed by a private industrialist, it would remain accessible to the BMC, government and public. Samant added, "A presentation on the project will be made to Mumbai's MLAs and MLCs, and members who raised the issue in the House will also be invited for the briefing."

295 acres
Area of Central Park