The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has put a temporary halt to road concretisation work in Bandra’s Pali Hill after strong resistance from residents. The Pali Hill Residents Association (PHRA) opposed the project, citing concerns over dust pollution, possible damage to fully grown trees, and disruptions affecting a nearby girls’ primary school and senior citizens.
This move is part of BMC’s broader plan to concretise 450 km of roads across Mumbai, with 132 km slated for completion before this year’s monsoon.
Peaceful, tree-lined streets protected
Pali Hill Residents Association (PHRA) strongly opposed the concretisation of Auxilium Convent Road, highlighting multiple concerns. Residents pointed out that the road, built just five years ago, remains in excellent condition with minimal traffic. They also feared that the project would harm mature trees lining both sides, increase dust levels affecting elderly residents, and disrupt a nearby girls’ primary school.
Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani acknowledged these concerns and instructed civic officials to reassess the necessity of the project before moving forward. This decision follows similar resistance in Bandra’s Mount Mary area and Marine Drive, where residents pushed back against unnecessary roadwork. Gagrani assured that each case would be reviewed individually, ensuring a balance between infrastructure development and public interest.
For now, the BMC has issued a stop-work order for Pali Hill, giving residents hope that their peaceful, tree-lined street will remain undisturbed.
