The contentious open spaces policy was passed on Wednesday by the BMC, despite many objections by a slew of NGOs and common citizens. Now, nearly 1,500 plots of land across Mumbai, designated as gardens, playgrounds and recreation grounds, are up for adoption by corporates, individuals, NGOs and residents’ associations.

Several green activists and concerned citizens now have their worst fears realised. While there will be no change to the status quo for lands that were previously adopted, for the new plots, one of the most contentious aspects of this policy is that the BMC can pick bidders based on financial factors.