Mumbai News | Bandra residents and Koli community face off over Khar Danda Seafood Plaza plan

A group of Bandra West residents under the IMPACT banner (Citizens Movement for Environment and Civic Action) has warned of legal action if BMC does not withdraw its proposal to set up a seafood plaza at Khar Danda Koliwada. The initiative, aimed at empowering local Koli women, proposes a market on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at the end of the Carter Road promenade.

The plan has triggered tensions between the upper-income residents of Bandra-Khar and the indigenous Koli fishing community. Koli women argue that the promenade’s tail-end is a democratic space added in 2018 and not part of the original Carter Road stretch.

Khar Danda locals point out the irony of space being allotted for dog parks but not for the area’s original inhabitants. Supporters highlight the success of similar plazas in Mahim and Worli and argue that the Khar Danda version would occupy a small section without affecting walkers.

Meanwhile, IMPACT claims BMC failed to consult residents before initiating the project. Their letter dated April 11, cited concerns over poles installed for stalls, venue constraints, and potential traffic chaos. No public hearing was held despite the formal objection process. IMPACT even held a silent protest on Sunday and is preparing a legal notice, said reports.

A BMC official clarified that while objections were received, the Khar Danda Seafood Plaza is funded by the District Planning Development Committee (DPDC) using MLA funds. It is not a direct BMC initiative. The plaza is to be located near the crematorium and public toilets at the promenade’s end.