Shivaji Park Beautification Plan Faces Resident Protest Over Dust Pollution
Residents near Shivaji Park in Dadar staged a silent protest on Sunday, demanding immediate action to remove excess red soil that causes severe dust pollution. The protest comes as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation prepares to start beautification and illumination works around the iconic ground next week.
Dust Pollution Concerns Unaddressed
Local residents have complained for years about dust pollution from suspended red soil and fine particles forming the top layer of Shivaji Park. They say the problem started in 2021 when the BMC dumped truckloads of red soil as part of an earlier beautification plan.
The additional soil layer gets displaced by wind, creating severe dust pollution. Residents report a noticeable increase in respiratory illnesses, especially among vulnerable groups in the neighborhood.
IIT Bombay Investigation Causes Delay
The BMC had planned grass plantation on the soil and engaged IIT Bombay to conduct a study several months ago. However, with no visible progress, residents organized through the Shivaji Maharaj Park residents' ALM to stage Sunday's protest.
"Even though they had a meeting with IIT Bombay three months ago, they are yet to find a solution," said Vaibhav Rege, a local resident. "We want a reason why the red soil pollution has not been taken up as an immediate priority despite constant follow up. Residents are suffering from respiratory health issues."
Nearly 60 residents participated in the protest and signed a complaint letter set to be forwarded to civic chief Bhushan Gagrani next week.
Official Response and Investigation Status
Senior civic officials from the G North ward office confirmed that IIT Bombay's soil investigation remains ongoing. "Officials from IIT Bombay have already collected the soil sample. After their investigation is complete, they will submit their final report on the basis of which we will take the next course of action," said a senior official.
Beautification Project Details
Meanwhile, officials stated that beautification work around Shivaji Park's periphery will begin next week. The BMC first invited tenders for this project in November 2025, with a budget of Rs 2.25 crore.
The project includes:
- Repairing the katta (seating area) to match heritage specifications
- Fixing broken tiles and tree rounds
- Installing illumination around sculptures within the ground premises
- Various other civil works in the periphery area
"We will be issuing the work order to the contractor soon after which work is likely to commence in the next week," added an official.
Historical Significance of Shivaji Park
Sprawled over 28 acres, Dadar's Shivaji Park stands as one of Mumbai's largest open spaces. The ground holds historical importance as the epicenter of several landmark political events. It also gained fame for producing cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar.
The current conflict highlights the tension between urban beautification projects and environmental health concerns affecting local communities.
