Historic Banganga Lake Set for a Majestic Transformation in Mumbai

Mumbai, 18th December 2023: Minister of Skill Development, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation of Maharashtra, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, who also serves as the District Guardian Minister of Mumbai Suburbs, conducted the Bhoomipujan for the restoration project of Banganga Lake in Walkeshwar. This project aims to revive the ancient and spiritually significant site, reflecting Mumbai’s rich history.

The Bhoomipujan ceremony witnessed the presence of Assistant Commissioner of D Division, Sharad Ughde. Additionally, a cleaning van dedicated to preserving the Banganga area was inaugurated during the event. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s D Division is overseeing various restoration works around Banganga Lake.

The comprehensive restoration plan encompasses crucial aspects such as rejuvenating the Banganga Lake surroundings, cleaning the Ramkundal area, repairing and restoring lake steps, protective walls, lamp posts, removing the inner structure of the lake, and improving the butterfly valve. Minister Lodha emphasized the removal of constructions around the lake to preserve its archaeological heritage, a directive he had given to the Municipal Corporation.

Banganga Lake, classified as a ‘Category-1’ heritage site, is poised to undergo a remarkable transformation, enhancing its appeal upon completion of the restoration works.

Municipal Commissioner and Administrator Dr. Iqbal Singh Chahal, along with Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) Dr Ashwini Joshi, are guiding the project under the purview of the D Division Office. Deputy Commissioner (Zone 1) Dr Sangeeta Hasanale is spearheading the revival of various historical places in ‘D’ division, including the restoration of Banganga Lake area, declared a “Special Priority Project.”

A distinctive feature of the initiative is the development of a ‘Bhakti Marg’ road in the area. Information boards, attractive street lights, parks inspired by the Varanasi development project, an open meeting system, and a Promenade will further contribute to the project’s appeal. Security measures include the installation of CCTV cameras in the lake area.

The Assistant Commissioner of ‘D’ Division revealed that heritage buildings in the lake area would be preserved and conserved under the guidance of the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums Department, in collaboration with the Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee.