Mumbai’s skyline may be filled with towers, but its open spaces are rapidly shrinking. In a strong move, Mumbai BJP president and Andheri (West) MLA Ameet Satam has written to the BMC asking it to scrap the interim open spaces policy that allows private parties to take over city parks and playgrounds for “maintenance” on short-term contracts.
What’s the Issue?
Currently, BMC follows an interim policy under which open spaces like gardens, grounds, and parks can be handed to private parties, trusts, or institutions for 11 months to “maintain” them.
But critics fear this opens the door to misuse, with some open spaces quietly converted into gyms, clubs, or profit-making ventures.
Satam’s Key Demands
| Demand by MLA Ameet Satam | Reason |
|---|---|
| Stop allotment under interim policy | Prevent misuse and land-grabbing by vested interests |
| BMC should directly maintain open spaces | Keep them truly public and accessible |
| Explore regulated advertising | Generate revenue without privatization |
| Frame a new citizen-friendly policy | Ensure open spaces are not handed over to private hands permanently |
What Satam Said
- “There is a lot of concern in the city regarding open spaces being usurped by vested interests. Some spaces have been converted into clubs or gymkhanas for profits,” he wrote to the BMC chief.
- “Once a private party occupies an open space, eviction becomes extremely difficult. BMC must ensure all open spaces are maintained only by itself,” he added.
Satam’s Track Record
Satam highlighted that he has developed over 60 open spaces in Andheri (West) and all are maintained by the BMC—not private players. He argued this is proof that BMC itself can manage parks and gardens effectively.
Why This Matters for Citizens
For Mumbaikars, especially homebuyers and families, open spaces are the city’s lungs. With increasing congestion and shrinking greenery, the way these spaces are managed directly impacts:
- Quality of life – Parks and gardens for children and senior citizens.
- Property values – Homes near well-maintained open spaces command higher prices.
- Public access – Ensuring parks don’t turn into exclusive clubs.
What Happens Next?
Satam has urged the BMC not to allot any new open spaces until a comprehensive and citizen-first policy is framed. The ball is now in the civic body’s court—whether to protect Mumbai’s few remaining green patches or continue with its controversial interim policy.
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