A recent proposal by the Maharashtra government to ease parking requirements in Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) has triggered strong opposition from civic activists, who warn that the move could worsen traffic congestion and further strain the already burdened infrastructure in Mumbai’s key business district.
On May 1, the Urban Development Department issued a public notice suggesting amendments to existing development control regulations for BKC. The proposal permits up to a 50% reduction in mandatory parking provisions for additional built-up space in selected blocks, based on representations from developers citing limitations under current norms. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has backed the initiative, stating that it is aimed at improving land utilisation and supporting growth in one of the city’s most important commercial hubs.
Key concerns raised
Activists and urban planners have flagged several potential issues, including:
Existing parking demand already exceeding available capacity
Increased likelihood of vehicles spilling onto roads and encroaching public spaces
Reduced effective carriageway width leading to slower traffic movement
Higher congestion and longer commuting times
Elevated risks for pedestrians and road users
They have cautioned that the proposal may lead to “demonstrable and irreversible hardship” if implemented.
Alternative suggestions
Critics have urged authorities to instead focus on:
Developing multi-level and structured parking facilities
Strengthening traffic regulation and enforcement
Strict adherence to existing parking norms
Withdrawing the proposed relaxation altogether
Next steps
The government has opened a one-month window for public objections. A final decision will be taken under the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act, 1966, after reviewing all submissions. Given BKC’s strategic importance, the outcome is expected to influence broader urban planning decisions in Mumbai.
The Watchdog Foundation has formally opposed the proposal. “BKC is already a highly congested business district with severe parking shortages and traffic stress. Any dilution of parking norms will inevitably result in increased on-street parking, traffic bottlenecks, reduced road capacity, and serious safety concerns,” said Advocate Godfrey Pimenta, trustee of the foundation.
Source: Mid-day
