Mumbai: Amid the controversy over the proposed LED hoardings along Bandra’s Carter Road promenade, the Bandra West Residents Association (BWRA) wrote to multiple authorities, including the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), asserting that the promenade-built and maintained by local residents over the past 25 years-is a vital public open space used daily by thousands of citizens.The Carter Road promenade is one of the most frequented open spaces, serving as a vital recreational and social hub for residents across Bandra and beyond. The promenade attracts thousands of walkers, joggers, senior citizens, families, and visitors every day. Over the years, it evolved into a rare, accessible waterfront space in a densely built neighbourhood. “This is a clear and blatant violation of the principles meant to safeguard public open spaces,” the association said in its letter. It added that any sponsorship or advertising during its tenure was done within strictly defined sizes and locations, and with respect for the promenade’s character. BWRA cautioned that the issue could recur due to the absence of clear guidelines regulating hoardings and advertisements on promenades, many of which fall within Coastal Regulation Zone limits. The letter states, “Fortunately, the local Danda Maritime Board office swiftly took down the columns after our dialogue with them. However, we fear this may be attempted again as there are no clear guidelines/regulations governing hoardings/advertisements on Mumbai’s beautiful promenades, which fall in the restricted CRZ zones.” Private firm, Star Electricals, was awarded the maintenance and beautification contract by the MMB under a structured PPP model nearly a year ago. The company says it has invested close to Rs 90 lakh towards improving upkeep, safety, and infrastructure along the promenade. BMC clarified that it has no role as far as the maintenance contract is concerned, and that the same was signed only between the contractor and MMB. TOI tried to reach out to MMB for comment, but there wasn’t any response.
