The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is planning to redevelop four defunct toll plazas across the city into landmark entry points featuring clock towers, commercial spaces and entertainment zones. The initiative aims to transform the unused land parcels into vibrant transit and leisure hubs for residents and visitors entering Mumbai.
On Tuesday, Mayor Ritu Tawde inspected three of the former check-post locations at Airoli, Vashi and Mulund. The civic body plans to construct three clock towers at these locations along with arch-shaped entrance gates designed to reflect Mumbai’s cultural heritage.
The sites identified for redevelopment were previously used as toll or check nakas where the BMC collected octroi tax from vehicles entering and leaving the city. However, after the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax in 2017, the octroi tax system was abolished, leaving these spaces unused.
In total, five such former entry points exist—two in Mulund and one each in Mankhurd (Vashi), Dahisar and Airoli. Together, these parcels cover nearly 43 acres. To make productive use of the land, the civic body earlier proposed converting these areas into transport-linked commercial hubs.
After reviewing the sites, Tawde said the redevelopment will include more than just gates and towers. New clock towers will be built at Airoli, Dahisar, Mulund and Mankhurd, serving as symbolic gateways into the city.
“Citizens, visitors and tourists entering Mumbai should identify Mumbai’s cultural aspect from the design of these gates and the clock tower. Therefore, all these gateways will be built on the basis of social, cultural, economic themes related to Mumbai,” Tawde said.
The plan also includes creating multi-use spaces combining commercial and recreational facilities. According to the proposal, each hub will feature shopping malls, banquet halls, restaurants, food courts, auditoriums and art galleries, offering both entertainment and leisure options.
Additionally, these zones will function as transit centres for travellers. Facilities such as hotels, eateries, ticket booking counters and transfer systems linking private vehicles, waterways and metro services will be integrated into the design.
Through this redevelopment, the BMC aims to convert previously idle land into active urban spaces while creating attractive entry points that showcase Mumbai’s identity and culture.
Source: The Indian Express
