Mumbai gets a new development model

If the Rani Jadhav committee has its way, the eastern coast – from CST to Wadala – is going to be the future – at least Mumbai's.

The committee, set up by the central government in July 2014, to find out ways in which the 1,781 acres of Mumbai Port Trust land can be developed, has submitted a 24-page report.

The ambitious report, if implemented, will convert the eastern coast into an international tourist hotspot.

Out of the 1,781 acres, 1018 can be redeveloped by changing the current land use policy, suggests the report. The redevelopment will be done under the title of re-branding Mumbai's eastern waterfront – Open, Connected and Green.

As per the report, 30% port trust land will be used for the open spaces, 25% for road transport, 40% for mixed development and 5% for social amenities.

The report also suggested 2-3 marinas, helipads, recreation and tourism facilities, cruise terminals of international standards, sea world, aquarium, water sports, floating restaurants, flamingo observation decks, wetland parks and bird sanctuaries.

The plan also envisages cultural centres and amphitheaters. It will also have heritage trail for tourists.

The report also calls for the development of entrepreneurship promotion zones in the eastern coast. To this effect, it suggested strengthening fishing and fish-based industrial activities.

Are there no constraints?
There are. The report does list some of them. Prime among them are vacant land being scattered in small pockets, scattered port operations, tenancy and large pockets of slums. Slum removal, it said, will pose a problem.

How is transport development planned?
In order to provide an efficient mode of transport, the report said connecting Metro- IV to the coast was essential. "A dedicated Rapid Bus Transport Facility corridor need to be developed. It should have non-motorised, pedestrian-friendly cycle tracks and inter-modal transport terminals. Emergency services also should be developed," the report suggested.

What about commercial space?
There will be space for commercial offices and retail markets, so that people can enjoy the shopping experience at the water front. The commercial space will have international finance and exhibition centres, besides studios and luxury hotels.

Is it very ambitious?
"People coming to this area should not face any problem. It's going to be an international destination," said one of the trustees of MbPT. "We want seamless local, regional and national accessibility to the area. That's why are offering multiple mode of transport – road services, metro, rail, water transit, cycle tracks etc.

Where are boat jetties planned?
Passenger water transportation terminals need to be constructed at Radio Club, Ferry Wharf, Haji Bunder, and Nariman Point. The committee suggests long-term, flexible and adaptable transport facilities. The CST to Panvel elevated train corridor also needs to be developed, besides widening the P.D Mello road and north-south connections.

What's the Port Trust saying?
Officials say this plan will be environment-friendly. "We will allow only non-polluting industries. It will be an eco-sensitive zone. If the suggestions of the report gets implemented, it will redefine Mumbai's shoreline. It will revive Mumbai totally and fetch a lot of revenue," said an officer.

What are the land policy hurdles?
As per MPT Act, 1963, non-port activities are not allowed on port land. Coastal regulation zone norms too will have to be amended as construction will have to take place within 500 metres from the seashore. Relocation of farms from Haji Bunder and Mallet Bunder to salt pan land, and fast-track courts will also be required. Whether the land should be disposed of like mill lands where the state and BMC will get their share will also have to be decided.