June 10, 2025: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to commence the long-awaited beautification of the Mahalaxmi Temple precinct this month. According to a senior civic official, the project will be executed by Dev Engineers, with the contractor having presented the work plan last week. Final approval is currently pending with Additional Municipal Commissioner (City), Dr Ashwini Joshi, and the work is expected to begin within the next 15 days.
While the total cost of the precinct beautification project is estimated at Rs 40 cr, the first phase, set to commence shortly, will cost approximately Rs 25 cr. The BMC will undertake the work outside the main temple premises, while beautification within the temple grounds will be handled by the Mahalaxmi Temple Trust.
The Free Press Journal had earlier reported on 17 February that the file was awaiting administrative approval from the Municipal Commissioner. In March 2024, the then Chief Minister Eknath Shinde directed BMC to allocate Rs 60 crore for the development and beautification of the historic temple and also performed the ceremonial bhoomipujan.
Key components of the project include the construction of a skywalk connecting Akruti Parking to the temple, improvement of access roads and pavements, pedestrian flow management, and the realignment of shops and stalls. The plan also features the creation of decorative entrance gateways, architectural lighting for nearby heritage structures, and laser lighting along the approach roads.
The beautification will be undertaken in a manner that respects and reflects the traditional architectural aesthetics of the temple while significantly enhancing infrastructure and facilities for devotees.
This initiative forms part of a broader civic effort to preserve cultural heritage while improving urban infrastructure and promoting spiritual tourism in Mumbai.
Source: The Free Press Journal
