Andheri locals add green touches
Residents Adopted The Plot That Was Eyed By Builder, Corporator ………Sukhada Tatke I TNN
Mumbai: It’s no mean task to drive out land sharks, persevere with the authorities, and then, take on the responsibility of maintaining and beautifying a plot. But citizens of Andheri (E) have done just that and have transformed a barren 1.5-acre land into a beautiful garden.
Vrindavan Gardens at Maheshwari Nagar, near MIDC, was until a few years ago in the possession of a builder who had developed the neighbouring housing colonies. Although the ground was reserved as a recreation ground in BMC records, residents alleged that the builder was trying hard to get the land dereserved so that he would be able to start construction there. The ground was also being used at night for illicit activities.
“We, the members of Maheshwari Nagar and Chunawalla Compound Residents’ Association, had to protect the fast-depleting open space. We were not ready to bend to the builders’ demands. We made several rounds of the BMC and the officials kept telling us that nothing could be done as long as the builder was in possession of the land,’’ said Amrik Bhatia, who has been in the forefront of the drive. “Finally, after facing several hurdles such as the plot being eyed not only by the builder but also by the then local corporator (who wanted to make a club house and a swimming pool), the civic body agreed to give us the land on adoption basis and we started developing it last year,’’ he added.
Now, the garden is home to more that 100 varieties of lush green trees. A vermi-compost pit, which treats approximately 150 kg garbage daily, makes the garden self-sufficient for manure. People can avail of a football ground and a jogging or walking track. They have also constructed a small stage, which will be used to host functions, and a tiny pagoda.
The garden has been developed with the help of funds from local MLA Suresh Shetty and corporator Clive Dias. “We have also received support in this initiative from the NGO United Way Mumbai-Mumbai Helpline. But, we are worried about the funds. Once we get the funds rolling, there will be no problems,’’ said resident Parul Jain.
However, some fear that a large section of society that was hitherto using the ground for play may be left out after this ‘development.’ “Children from the neighbouring slums used to play cricket on this field regularly. These users may not feel as comfortable as they did earlier. They may not be able to afford an entry fee of Rs 2 either,’’ said a resident. But others have assured that the garden would still be open for everyone. “We will involve them in various activities and workshops. They will also be able to use the ground,’’ said resident Sabrina Kannampilly.
FLEDGLING CAMARADERIE: The residents plan to involve everyone from the neighbourhood in various activities and workshops that will be held at the ground, which will be open to all