Mumbai's New Elevated Forest Walkway: A Blend of Nature and Eco-Friendly Design
Mumbai is set to welcome its first elevated forest walkway through the Malabar Hill Forest, offering stunning sea views and a unique eco-friendly experience. The project, led by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), is nearly 90% complete and is e
MumbaiElevated Forest WalkwayMalabar Hill ForestEcofriendly DesignGreen SpacesReal Estate MumbaiOct 24, 2024
Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, is about to receive a refreshing addition to its green spaces. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is constructing an elevated forest walkway through the Malabar Hill Forest, which is expected to open by the end of 2023. This project aims to provide residents and visitors with a unique experience of nature, complete with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and a focus on ecological preservation.
Project Overview
The idea for this elevated forest walkway was inspired by similar projects in Singapore, known for its innovative green spaces. The BMC proposed the construction of the walkway in 2020, and tenders for the project were awarded in 2021 for INR 22 crore. Civil works began in 2022, and the project is now 90% complete, with a targeted inauguration date of December 2023.
Current Status and Challenges
A civic official from the BMC confirmed that the civil works are almost complete. However, ancillary tasks such as electrification, painting, construction of restrooms, and setting up ticket counters are currently underway. Due to the upcoming Assembly elections and staff shortages, the final phase of the project might take an additional two to three months. Despite these challenges, the officials remain optimistic about the walkway being ready by the end of the year.
Maintenance and Security
To ensure the walkway is well-maintained and secure, the BMC issued a tender worth INR 2.43 crore last week. The tender is for hiring personnel to handle maintenance and housekeeping services. Security is a significant concern due to the elevated nature of the walkway, and the BMC is taking steps to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.
Unique Features and Design
The walkway will span 705 metres within the Malabar Hill Forest, starting from Siri Road behind Kamala Nehru Park. Visitors will be treated to an unobstructed view of the Arabian Sea, making the walkway not only a nature lover's delight but also a spot for scenic views. The walkway will include a birdwatching zone and a glass-bottom viewing deck, providing a unique perspective of the forest and the sea below.
The structure is designed to be eco-friendly, with minimal use of concrete. The deck is being constructed from wood, which will help maintain the natural flow of water through the hill slopes and minimize disruption to wildlife. The project has been careful to avoid harming any trees, emphasizing the eco-sensitive and silent zone nature of the area.
Environmental Considerations
The Malabar Hill Forest is a protected area, and the project has been designed to respect its ecological sensitivity. Civil works were conducted within a specific timeframe to minimize environmental impact, which led to a one-year extension of the project's deadline. The focus on preserving the natural environment is a key aspect of the project, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature while minimizing their ecological footprint.
Conclusion
The elevated forest walkway in Mumbai's Malabar Hill Forest is set to become a significant addition to the city's green spaces. It offers a unique blend of nature, stunning views, and eco-friendly design, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. The BMC's commitment to ecological preservation and community access is commendable, and the walkway promises to be a welcome addition to Mumbai's urban landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total length of the elevated forest walkway in Mumbai?
The elevated forest walkway in Mumbai's Malabar Hill Forest will span 705 metres.
When is the expected inauguration date of the walkway?
The walkway is expected to be inaugurated by December 2023.
What unique features will the walkway have?
The walkway will feature a birdwatching zone and a glass-bottom viewing deck, offering stunning views of the forest and the Arabian Sea.
How much was the budget for the project?
The budget for the project was INR 22 crore.
What steps are being taken to ensure the walkway is eco-friendly?
The walkway is being constructed with minimal use of concrete, using wood for the deck to maintain the natural flow of water through the hill slopes and avoid disrupting wildlife movement. The project has also been careful to avoid harming any trees.
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