Residents of Breach Candy in Mumbai have been making renewed efforts over the past several months to revive two beloved neighbourhood gardens that were lost due to the construction of the Coastal Road. The civic gardens—one locally known as Tata Garden, which once served as a key green lung for the area, and the smaller Signature Garden—were affected during the construction of the Amarsons interchange along the Coastal Road corridor.
Revival Initiatives Underway
While work to revive Signature Garden is already underway through an ayurvedic garden project being developed by the Mittal Foundation Trust, residents are now trying to restore Tata Garden through discussions with Godrej Enterprises. Locals said a meeting was held with authorities and representatives last week to explore possibilities for revival and long-term maintenance of the open space.
Tata Garden's History and Importance
A large portion of the 1.1-acre Tata Garden had made way for the Amarsons interchange, the first major interchange on the Coastal Road, which now channels traffic towards Malabar Hill, Pedder Road, and Mahalaxmi. Laid out in 1983 on a BMC-owned plot, the garden had evolved over the years into one of south Mumbai's most popular public green spaces. Maintained by the Tata Group before its demolition for the Coastal Road work, it was frequently used for film shoots and community activities.
Ayurvedic Garden Project
Rahul Mittal, trustee of the Mittal Foundation Trust, said, 'Our vision is to bring back meaningful neighbourhood green spaces while creating awareness about ayurveda, which is one of India's greatest gifts to the world.' Abhishek Mittal, another trustee, added, 'This ayurvedic garden is not just about plants—it is about reconnecting the younger generation with India's traditional knowledge, wellness, and way of living.'
Community Sentiment
Breach Candy resident Nigum Lakhani, who witnessed Tata Garden being torn down, said the space has long been a symbol of pride, identity, and community for residents of Breach Candy and neighbouring localities. 'We are delighted that Godrej Enterprises is now considering reviving and developing it. It is important to preserve and clearly demarcate neighbourhood green spaces on old land, distinct from the larger citywide spaces being created on new reclaimed land. After nearly a decade, our community has finally regained this space, and we sincerely hope it will evolve into a dedicated green sanctuary for locals to relive old, fond memories,' he said.
You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Mumbai | Silver Rate in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai | Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Petrol Price in Mumbai | Diesel Price in Mumbai | CNG Price in Mumbai | LPG Price in Mumbai
About the Author
Richa Pinto is a special correspondent with The Times of India. She covers urban governance and climate change issues. With over a decade of experience in field reporting, she has written extensively on various civic issues affecting Mumbaikars. She graduated in journalism from the prestigious Mumbai-based St Xavier's College and later pursued a three-year Law degree (L.L.B.) with the University of Mumbai. She regularly tweets about all things that matter to Mumbai at @richapintoi.
