Mumbai: Kala Ghoda Pedestrianisation Faces Hurdles Amid Hopes for Long-Term Gains

Mumbai, 2nd June 2025: Nine months after the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) rolled out a pedestrian-only zone in Kala Ghoda’s art district, the ambitious urban design project continues to draw mixed reactions. While the weekend vehicle ban from 7pm to midnight has brought a welcome pause to the area’s usual noise and pollution, the ground reality of its execution leaves much to be desired, according to frequent visitors and local shop owners.

The initiative, modelled after European pedestrian-friendly streets, covers five roads: Forbes Street, VB Gandhi Marg, Saibaba Marg, Ropewalk Street, and B Bhaurcha Marg. Despite initial enthusiasm, progress has been marred by delays, uneven surfaces, haphazard lighting installations, and a lack of basic drainage systems.

Streets were supposed to be paved with cobblestones by April, but the timeline has been pushed past the monsoon. Ongoing work has rendered many stretches bumpy and unsafe. “Everything about the ongoing work is incomplete and leaves a lot to be desired,” said Karun Arya, a professional who regularly visits Kala Ghoda. “Stones are placed unevenly, rubble is lying around, and some areas haven’t been cleared for months.”

The pedestrian experience, particularly for women and elderly individuals, has become precarious. “I love the rustic aesthetic,” said Ria Aggarwal, an employee at a local boutique. “But I’m afraid to walk in heels now, I’ve seen people trip.”

Atul Kumar, president of the Nariman Point Churchgate Citizen’s Association (NPCCA), echoed these concerns. “The uneven surfaces pose serious challenges for senior citizens, and it’s only going to get worse when the rains begin,” he noted.

Reporters observed sluggish progress over the weekend, with only a handful of workers on-site. Chiselling of stones, done manually to create a rustic effect, has slowed timelines, and in some areas, lamp posts were found jutting awkwardly into walking paths. Businesses in the precinct, including high-end cafés and boutiques, are grappling with a temporary dip in footfall due to restricted vehicle access during the week.

Still, some residents urge patience. Framoz Langrana, a longtime local, remains optimistic. “It’s true the delays are frustrating, but once it’s done, the pedestrian-friendly environment will be a major improvement. The absence of cars and honking is already a huge relief,” he said.