July 1, 2025: In a major step towards urban renewal, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has unveiled a comprehensive three-phase beautification and infrastructure upgrade around the iconic Siddhivinayak Temple in Prabhadevi. Aimed at improving the experience for the thousands of daily devotees, the initiative will be jointly overseen by the G North and G South wards—encompassing key neighbourhoods such as Dadar, Mahim, Dharavi, Worli, and parts of Lower Parel.
According to senior civic officials, the first phase alone is estimated to cost over Rs 100 cr. “This project is designed to enhance mobility, safety, and aesthetics for devotees without making any alterations to the sanctum sanctorum or internal temple structure,” an official told the Hindustan Times. The project is expected to begin later this month, pending final approval from the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC).
Phase one focuses on decongesting traffic and improving the surrounding infrastructure. Two underground car parks are planned to ease on-street parking pressure. The main temple entrance will be reimagined as ‘Siddhi Gate’, featuring intricate marble carvings and a decorative canopy. The flooring around the temple complex will also be refurbished.
Phase two will prioritise visitor convenience and safety. A facilitation centre will be constructed to manage crowd flow and streamline entry, supported by enhanced security with new checkpoints. A second entrance, ‘Riddhi Gate’, will be developed along Kakasaheb Gadgil Marg to improve pedestrian access.
Named after Riddhi and Siddhi—the divine consorts of Lord Ganesha—the twin gateways symbolise prosperity and spiritual progress.
However, the launch remains subject to MMRC’s nod due to overlapping metro infrastructure beneath the proposed parking areas. Once clearance is granted, BMC will begin the tendering process. The entire project is scheduled for completion within 12 months of its official commencement.
Source: The Free Press Journal
