The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is planning to improve pedestrian movement across Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) by preventing new commercial developments from building compound walls. The initiative seeks to revive the business district’s original urban design, which encouraged people to walk conveniently between offices, commercial spaces and public areas.
The move comes as BKC prepares for a substantial increase in commercial activity, with several office projects under development. The district currently attracts more than 2.5 lakh visitors and workers daily, a figure expected to rise as additional office space becomes available.
According to JLL’s April 2026 report, BKC Commercial Office Market Report, the district’s total office inventory is expected to expand by 32%, increasing from 20.4 million sq. ft. in 2026 to 26.9 million sq. ft. by 2029. The report estimates that office stock will reach 22.5 million sq. ft. in 2027 and 26 million sq. ft. in 2028.
The expansion follows a period of nearly five years during which additions to BKC’s commercial office supply remained limited.
An MMRDA official explained that the area was initially planned to support easy pedestrian access. However, the concept gradually weakened as individual establishments began erecting boundary walls, particularly after the 26/11 terror attacks, when security became a greater priority.
The authority is now encouraging existing property owners and establishments to voluntarily dismantle their compound walls. However, officials indicated that structures previously approved by the authority cannot simply be removed through compulsory action.
Infrastructure development is also expected to support BKC’s commercial growth. Key projects include the Dharavi redevelopment, Mithi River waterfront improvement, expanded Metro connectivity and the proposed relocation of the Bombay High Court to the business district.
Meanwhile, MMRDA has projected revenue of Rs 11,177 crore through land monetisation, including plots in BKC and other locations.
With office inventory and daily movement expected to increase, the authority’s initiative aims to create a more accessible and pedestrian-oriented commercial hub.
Source: The Free Press Journal
