Already struggling to find breathing space in the concrete jungle of Mumbai, a slew of citizens and NGOs came down heavily against the BMC’s new Recreational Ground-Playround (RG-PG) policy, which they feared would lead to even fewer open spaces. The policy was slated to be passed yesterday, but has, for now, been put on hold.

It is unfortunate that there has to be a relentless and sustained battle by citizens to save open spaces. Activists have to be eternally vigilant in this never-ending battle that is not only time-consuming, but also seeps the spirit of this city’s people. They are, after all, fighting for what is rightfully theirs. One has to feel sorry for this bunch of citizens who have to keep knocking on the doors of the powers that be, to plug the steady disappearance of the city’s grounds and parks.