Maidans all set for makeover ……Sharad Vyas
Mumbai: The citys three prominent maidansCross,Oval and Azadare all set to undergo a sea change.
A state-appointed panel has in principle given its nod to a proposal by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) that seeks to club the three maidans via an underground tunnel or pathway and grow a forest.The committee has suggested that existing shops and structures be shifted underground and rent received from them be used to maintain the space.
According to the original plan,36.7 acres of green space was to be beautified and developed along the lines of Central Park,one of worlds biggest urban green spaces which occupies 1,000 acres in the heart of Manhattan in New York City.But members agreed that Central Park should only be used as a reference point while developing the Mumbai park,which would have its own identity and theme.
Members have in principle agreed to go ahead with the plan to beautify and develop the grounds by clubbing them together.We are also of the opinion that it should be nothing like Central Park, said a panel member.
The six-member study group was appointed last year to study the feasibility of the BMCs proposal,which was forwarded to the sports department as well urban development department since the grounds are under their jurisdiction.The panel,headed by secretary,sports (government of Maharashtra) Sanjay Kumar,was to submit a report in the first quarter of 2010.
The members have agreed that such a green space is the need of the area.We need to start work as soon as possible, said another member.
Almost every major metropolis in the world can be identified by its green space London with Hyde Park,New York with Central Park,etc.Therefore,members suggested the Mumbai park be given a distinct theme to reflect the spirit and soul of the city.Besides a mini forest,the maidans will have artificial lakes and ponds,walking tracks and play areas for kids.
* 1.OVAL MAIDAN:
The ground,measuring 22 acres,is a listed heritage precinct
The ground,measuring 22 acres,is a listed heritage precinct
* 2.CROSS MAIDAN:
The maidan has an area of 4.75 acres
The maidan has an area of 4.75 acres
* 3.AZAD MAIDAN
The triangular-shaped ground measures 10 acres
The triangular-shaped ground measures 10 acres