November 17, 2025: More than two and a half years after the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) approved the redevelopment plan for Macchimar Nagar in Cuffe Parade, the project continues to remain in limbo. Former BJP corporator Makarand Narwekar has accused the civic body of repeatedly assuring residents of progress while failing to initiate meaningful on-ground work. He has further alleged that instead of resolving delays, the BMC is now considering scrapping the project entirely—an action he claims would “penalise the local fishing community.” Narwekar has warned that if the tender is cancelled, the fishing community will be compelled to launch protests against the BMC.
The redevelopment, envisioned as a major boost to local tourism and cultural preservation, was originally proposed by Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar. In March 2023, the BMC approved the detailed design for Macchimar Nagar’s transformation and allocated ₹3 crore for the first phase. The plan aimed to enhance the historic Koliwada—home to Mumbai’s original inhabitants—by creating a waterfront experience that blends tourism, public spaces, and heritage conservation.
Designed by Plural Architects and Urban Planners, the proposed makeover includes a new promenade, north and south plazas with planters, art and lighting installations, an amphitheatre, landscaped sit-outs, and a viewing gallery. These features were expected to provide better public access, organised boat-parking facilities, and improved civic infrastructure.
However, with little progress beyond tiling and sewage work, frustration among residents has grown. In a letter to Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, Narwekar criticised the reported move to cancel the tender, saying the design—featuring a promenade, gazebos, art installations, and structured boat-parking—was finalised “after five years of effort.” He stated, “The administration failed to appoint a contractor and is now considering scrapping the tender. Apart from some tiling and sewage work, no real progress has been made. This project is essential for boosting local tourism and preserving Koli heritage. Shelving it is unacceptable.”
Narwekar has urged the commissioner to halt the cancellation process and expedite the long-awaited redevelopment of Macchimar Nagar.
Source: The Free Press Journal
