The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has proposed converting the unused space beneath the reconstructed Gokhale Bridge in Andheri East-Vile Parle East into a public recreation zone equipped with sports facilities, landscaped areas and community amenities.
The initiative aims to address the shortage of open spaces in the densely populated neighbourhoods surrounding the bridge by transforming the neglected under-flyover area into a functional public space.
The proposed development will extend from the Western Express Highway junction near N S Phadke Marg in Andheri East, where a botanical garden is planned near the Hubtown area, to a plot alongside the railway line that will accommodate multiple sporting facilities.
The planned sports infrastructure includes pickleball courts, a cricket turf, football facilities, a skating park, a half-basketball court, an open gym and a children’s play area. The project will also feature study zones, seating spaces, public toilets and an HBT public dispensary.
Dinesh Pallewad, acting assistant commissioner of K East ward, said the project focuses on reclaiming unused land below the flyover and creating a secure and accessible space for residents across age groups.
“The project was conceived, as Vile Parle, a densely populated suburb, has very few accessible public open spaces,” said a civic official from K East ward. “The facilities are expected to provide affordable recreational opportunities for children, youngsters and families, particularly those from middle-class neighbourhoods and nearby slum settlements.”
Pickleball has been included as one of the major attractions due to its limited space requirements and low infrastructure needs. “It only needs a flat playing surface and a net, making it ideal for the available land beneath the bridge,” the official said.
The BMC also expects the redevelopment to improve safety around the bridge area. “The under-bridge space has remained neglected for years and has often attracted anti-social activities, including drug users,” said the civic official. “Activating the space with regular sporting and community activities is expected to increase footfalls and discourage illegal activities.”
The proposal follows the completion of the Gokhale Bridge reconstruction in May last year, which improved east-west connectivity in Andheri. The civic body believes the recreational hub will further enhance the area by creating a new public landmark.
Source: Hindustan Times
