The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority’s (MMRDA) Bollywood-themed installations under the Metro 2B line, from Bandra to Juhu, have faced strong opposition. Locals and environmental activists have raised concerns about the project, disapproving of its focus on artificial structures instead of enhancing the area’s greenery.
Criticising the ₹350 crore project, former Bandra Corporator Asif Zakaria raised concerns over its lack of transparency, as no tenders or public expressions of interest were invited for the project. He also questioned the urgency, given the Metro’s completion is still years away. Activists argue that the money should be spent on more sustainable initiatives, like planting shrubs, which have been successful in other parts of the city.
The installations meant to honour Bollywood, have been called ‘eyesores’ that could be prone to vandalism and high maintenance costs. Local groups plan to petition the BMC and MMRDA, urging a rethink of the project to prioritise urban greenery and community needs over unnecessary cosmetic additions.
