Mumbai: Hanging Gardens

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A backgrounder

As in 2023

Oct 1, 2023: The Times of India

As per the latest news reports, the iconic 136-year-old Hanging Gardens in Mumbai is facing potential demolition due to a reconstruction project involving a colonial-era reservoir beneath Malabar Hill.

Reports add that this reconstruction is expected to span for around 7 years, and will involve the complete overhaul of the garden, including the removal of trees, with around 350 of them being transplanted nearby.

In response to resident protests, Mumbai's guardian minister and local MLA MP Lodha have scheduled a public meeting to discuss the issue. The reservoir, located at one of the city's highest points, serves to distribute water to South Mumbai through gravitational force.

The ambitious INR 698 crore plan to reconstruct the reservoir was initiated following a structural audit in 2017 that revealed its deteriorating condition, posing a risk to the entire structure. The current reservoir holds 147 million liters of water, and its precarious state leaves no room for partial demolition, as explained by P Velrasu, the additional municipal commissioner overseeing the civic hydraulic department.

However, as notices regarding tree removal and transplantation appear in the garden vicinity, residents are becoming increasingly aware of the wide-ranging impacts. Out of the 389 affected trees, 189 may be removed, while 200 will be transplanted. This includes ancient indigenous trees such as mango, jackfruit, coconut, chikoo, and amla.

The future of Mumbai's Hanging Gardens hangs in the balance, as the city grapples with the need for vital infrastructure improvements while striving to protect its rich natural heritage. The impending public meeting scheduled by Mumbai's guardian minister and local MLA MP Lodha is anticipated to shed much-needed light on the path forward for this iconic site and its surrounding environment.

Details

Why is Mumbai's iconic Hanging Garden closing for seven years?

The Hanging Garden is closing for a major reconstruction project to address the deteriorating condition of a colonial-era reservoir beneath it, ensuring safety and functionality.

What will happen to the trees in the Hanging Garden during the reconstruction?

As part of the project, some trees will be removed, but around 350 of them will be carefully transplanted to an adjacent area to preserve the greenery.

What's so special about the Mumbai's Hanging Garden?

Mumbai's Hanging Garden offers a tranquil escape with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and meticulous landscaping, making it a serene oasis in the heart of the bustling city. Its historical significance and unique sun clock add to its charm.