Prabhadevi’s Sane Guruji Udyan reopens after eight years; residents rue reduced size of open space, loss of trees, lack of proper playground
Sane Guruji Udyan in Prabhadevi, a space that had remained inaccessible for almost a decade. PICS/ASHISH RAJE
After nearly eight years behind barricades, Sane Guruji Udyan in Prabhadevi has finally reopened for public use. The garden had been shut and occupied by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) for the construction of the Siddhivinayak Metro Station, a key stop on the Mumbai Metro Aqua Line.
For those living around Prabhadevi and Dadar West, the reopening marks the return of one of the few accessible green lungs in a congested urban pocket. Morning walkers, senior citizens, and families with young children appeared happy to reclaim the space. “We live near the Parel depot. There is not a single park near our home. This was the nearest one. For so many years, when the park was closed, we had to take our kids all the way to Shivaji Park, which is far and also quite polluted, due to dust from the ground and ongoing construction activities. We are happy that we can bring our children to play here at least on the weekends, though the garden is now smaller in size,” said Mahesh Pednekar.
Locals point out that a substantial portion of the garden has been permanently taken over by the Metro station’s entry and exit gates, significantly reducing the usable green space. “We waited for so many years to get the garden back, but what we have received is much smaller than what existed earlier,” said Meenakshi Jagtap, who has lived in the area for over three decades.
Residents have also expressed concern over the loss of trees during the construction period. According to them, the reduced tree cover has led to higher dust levels within the garden premises, especially during peak hours. “Earlier, dense trees acted as a natural barrier against dust and pollution. Now, the air feels heavier, and the garden does not offer the same comfort it once did,” said Sakshi More, another resident.
Adding to the concerns is the playground adjacent to the garden, which remains uneven and unlevelled. Parents complain that the condition of the ground makes it unsafe for children to play. “The garden may have reopened, but children still don’t have a proper space to run and play,” said Jagtap.
‘Don’t take easy route’
Activists argue that while Metro projects are essential for sustainable transport, they should not permanently eat into scarce open spaces in densely populated neighbourhoods. Activist Zoru Bhathena said, “About 130 trees were removed from the Siddhivinayak Metro station site. Green spaces are rare in Mumbai. Eating into them for a Metro is the easy way out. One can visit the Kalbadevi Metro station and see how nicely it is built, without encroaching on any green open space.”
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