Maharashtra Minister Intervenes to Stop LED Hoardings at Carter Road Promenade
In a significant development for Mumbai residents, Maharashtra Fisheries and Ports Development Minister Nitesh Rane announced on Monday that no permission has been granted for the installation of LED hoardings at the Carter Road Promenade in Bandra. The minister confirmed that a stop-work notice has already been issued by the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) to halt any ongoing activities related to the controversial advertising structures.
Minister's Direct Intervention and Policy Clarification
Minister Rane provided clear clarification regarding the situation, stating that while the MMB is actively exploring the implementation of a comprehensive hoarding policy for certain plots under its ownership, permissions for the proposed LED hoardings at the Carter Road Promenade will not be allowed at this time. "I already spoke to the MMB officers and asked them to stop any work being carried out on the promenade," Rane emphasized during his statement to media outlets.
The minister's intervention comes amid growing concerns from local residents and community organizations about the potential commercialization of one of Mumbai's most cherished public spaces. The Carter Road Promenade has evolved over the past 25 years into a vital recreational and social hub, serving thousands of daily visitors with its scenic views of the Arabian Sea and well-maintained walking paths.
Contract Controversy and Resident Opposition
The controversy surrounding the LED hoardings has brought to light additional concerns about the maintenance contract awarded to a private company approximately one year ago. This contract was established under a structured Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model aimed at beautification and upkeep of the promenade area.
Former corporator Asif Zakaria has taken formal action by writing to the MMB, demanding cancellation of the contract specifically awarded for the LED boards. Zakaria has raised serious questions about the contractor's claims of spending Rs 90 lakh on maintenance over the past year, arguing that "the expenditure cited by the contractor does not reflect the ground reality in any manner."
Zakaria further contended that the current condition and upkeep of the promenade do not justify such substantial costs, urging the maritime board to conduct a thorough review of the contract and immediately halt any further work at the site.
Community Resistance and Historical Significance
Amid the escalating controversy, the Bandra West Residents Association (BWRA) has mobilized significant opposition to the proposed LED hoardings. The association has written to multiple authorities, including the Maharashtra Maritime Board, asserting that the promenade represents a vital public open space that has been built and meticulously maintained by local residents over the past quarter-century.
The Carter Road Promenade stands as one of Mumbai's most frequented open spaces, functioning as an essential recreational and social center for residents across Bandra and neighboring areas. Lined with comfortable seating areas and offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, the promenade attracts thousands of walkers, joggers, senior citizens, families, and visitors every single day.
Over the years, this waterfront space has evolved into a rare, accessible treasure in one of Mumbai's most densely built neighborhoods, providing much-needed breathing room and community gathering space in an increasingly urbanized environment. The current controversy highlights the ongoing tension between commercial interests and the preservation of public spaces that serve as vital community assets.
The minister's decisive action and the strong community response demonstrate the importance of protecting public spaces from excessive commercialization while ensuring transparent governance in urban development projects. As the situation develops, residents continue to monitor the MMB's response to both the LED hoarding issue and the broader questions raised about the maintenance contract and its associated costs.
