December 18, 2025: Mumbai is set to get one of its largest urban green spaces with the proposed 295-acre Central Park at Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced. The project aims to merge part of the historic racecourse with 170 acres of land reclaimed through the Coastal Road project, creating a vast, publicly accessible park in the heart of the city.
Shinde noted that approximately 125 acres will come from the racecourse, while the remaining 170 acres are reclaimed land. “The park will be an open-to-all green space with minimal above-ground construction,” officials said, highlighting walking and jogging tracks as the only visible additions to preserve the greenery and open sightlines in this densely built area.
A centerpiece of the plan is a 10-lakh square foot underground sports complex featuring international-standard facilities alongside traditional Indian sports such as kho-kho and kabaddi. The project, designed by renowned architect Hafeez Contractor, will respect the heritage character of the Mahalaxmi Racecourse while allowing racing activities to continue.
To improve access, a 1,200-metre tunnel linking the park to the Science Centre Metro station and the Coastal Road has been tendered. Parking facilities will be constructed along this route, with most built infrastructure remaining underground to retain the park’s green character.
The announcement came just hours before the State Election Commission declared the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation election schedule, invoking the model code of conduct. Authorities have confirmed that the Mahalaxmi Racecourse will continue operations, with core racing functions intact.
The land earmarked for the park has a history of disputes. Earlier this year, the BMC took control of 120 acres of racecourse land following the expiry of the Royal Western India Turf Club lease, while the club retains the remaining 91 acres for racing. The takeover drew protests from residents and heritage activists concerned about preserving this Grade II-B heritage site and its green cover.
Civic and state officials have assured that the redevelopment will prioritise public access, environmental preservation, and heritage conservation, making Central Park a green oasis for Mumbai residents.
Source: CNBC TV18
