From neglected space to green retreat: BMC transforms area under Mumbai's Princess Street flyover

The open space beneath the flyover has been developed into a landscaped garden with tree plantations. PIC/BMC

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has transformed the space beneath the Shamladas Gandhi Marg (Princess Street) flyover into a pedestrian-friendly public area, featuring new walkways, a landscaped garden, tree plantations and decorative lighting.

Maharashtra Assembly Speaker and local legislator Rahul Narwekar inaugurated the redeveloped space on Tuesday under the civic body's 'Pedestrian First' initiative.

The project aims to improve pedestrian safety and ease congestion in the area by creating dedicated walking spaces beneath the flyover. Earlier, pedestrians had no separate footpath along the E Road and H Road stretches beneath the flyover and were forced to walk on the carriageway.

The problem was particularly acute on H Road, which is only around four metres wide. Structures such as a public toilet, a BMC bank and a solid waste management outpost occupied space beneath the flyover, leaving little room for pedestrians and creating difficulties for both walkers and motorists.