Mumbai, Aug. 7 -- The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) plans to construct a public viewing deck at Bandra Fort overlooking the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, the upcoming Versova-Bandra Sea Link and the Worli-Dadar coastline. The proposed deck will measure 37 metres by 26.5 metres and will be linked to the promenade by a 42-metre access ramp built on precast concrete piles. The project is part of a coastal protection scheme with an estimated capital cost of Rs 178.5 mn. Construction is proposed during the non-monsoon period and is expected to take approximately nine months.
The scheme will reinforce nearly 370 metres of existing seawall that has suffered erosion, displaced armour stones and cavities beneath sections of the promenade because of years of tidal action and harsh monsoons. A crown wall and drainage openings are proposed to control wave overtopping and reduce further damage. Officials involved in the project indicated that strengthening these structures is essential for ensuring public safety and preserving shoreline stability. The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay examined the seawall and provided a report on the proposed strengthening plan.
Residents and the Bandra Bandstand Residents Trust raised concerns over the absence of prior consultation on the viewing deck and its proposed location, saying the trust has been permitted to maintain only the promenade. They reported that recent restrictions imposed by the maritime board on signages and activities such as hawking, littering and food vendors have complicated maintenance efforts. The trust expressed apprehension that the board may be prioritising commercial use of the waterfront over conservation. The board indicated that the measures form part of a broader attempt to regulate activity and protect the shoreline while allowing public access.
Officials said the capital estimate covers design, precast piling and seawall works and that final approvals will precede procurement. The project aims to balance visitor access with long term shoreline resilience.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.