A proposed redevelopment of the Mahalaxmi Racecourse in Mumbai has sparked a sharp divide among architects, planners and urban experts, even as the project remains at a conceptual stage. The plan by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation includes a central park, sports arena and convention centre, aimed at expanding public amenities in the city.
While the Practicing Engineers Architects and Town Planners Association has supported the proposal, the Mumbai Architects Collective has raised concerns over environmental impact, governance issues and potential cost overruns. The project has also gained attention following the issuance of a subway tender estimated at around Rs 500 crore.
Sandip Issore, president of PEATA said, “Any development has to be in balance without sacrificing true value of Mumbai City. Considering the growing population, Mumbaikars need development and new facilities, but the space is lacking. Therefore, utilising the existing open spaces in multiple ways is the prudency. The PEATA’s stand has always been while doing developments and advancements, the grace of the city should be retained.”
Echoing support, architect Manoj Daisaria added, “Mahalaxmi Racecourse project, will open up rare openspace to the public which will improve quality of life in a dense city like mumbai and have long term environmental and social gains. If executed well it can become most transformative urban project.”
In contrast, members of MCA have cautioned against the scale and design of the 298-acre plan. During a recent forum held with the Indian Society of Landscape Architects, experts stressed that “Mumbai’s open spaces aren’t just “vacant land” for infrastructure; they are living ecosystems.” Concerns were also raised about the site’s role in groundwater percolation and stormwater drainage.
Architect Harshad Bhatia noted that the land’s ecological function could be disrupted, while architect Alan Abraham warned that such developments may restrict access and impact air quality.
The master plan, prepared by Hafeez Contractor, divides the area into three zones—garden, sports arena and convention centre. BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani said, “The tender for subway is issued, and feasibility study for basement work is going on. There is no estimates yet for basements, but the subway will be around Rs 500 crore.”
The redevelopment concept gained momentum after Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced in December 2025 that the site would be developed along the lines of New York’s Central Park.
Source: The Free Press Journal
