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The Mumbai Architects Collective has recently addressed a letter to the BMC commissioner, raising alarm over the increasing trend of parks and open spaces being repurposed for infrastructure projects, commercial activities, and parking. This encroachment threatens the ecological, social, and public value of these vital areas. The letter, signed by 92 architects, planners, and designers, calls for enhanced protection of these essential spaces.

The collective expressed significant concern regarding the ongoing risks to key public areas such as the Hanging Gardens, Racecourse, Aarey forest, salt pans, and the unmet promises of open spaces along the Coastal Road. They urged the BMC commissioner to capitalize on the unity displayed at Patwardhan Park and commit to ensuring that all of Mumbai's open spaces remain publicly accessible and under public control. Protecting these areas is deemed essential for the city's environmental, social, and economic future.

The planned open spaces along Mumbai's coastal road are yet to be developed and will be addressed only after the completion of the road itself. Last weekend, BMC commissioner Bhushan Gagrani joined local residents at Bandra's Raosaheb Patwardhan Park to celebrate the BMC's decision to cancel plans for an underground parking facility beneath the park’s playground.

In their letter, the collective commended the efforts of citizens to safeguard Patwardhan Park from being transformed into a parking lot. They highlighted the solidarity shown by residents, political leaders, and the BMC in preserving this crucial public space, drawing parallels to the successful campaign at Pushpa Narsee Park in Juhu. These victories illustrate the importance of protecting open spaces for public enjoyment. Last year, plans for a parking lot under Juhu's Pushpa Narsee Park were abandoned following strong opposition from local residents.

The Mumbai Architects Collective's letter emphasizes the urgent need to defend public spaces amid the pressures of urbanization and infrastructure development. By acknowledging recent triumphs like Patwardhan Park and Pushpa Narsee Park, the collective underscores the significance of collaboration among citizens, political representatives, and the BMC in preserving these areas. Their message is clear: protecting open spaces is vital not only for maintaining green zones but also for ensuring the long-term environmental, social, and economic health of Mumbai. The collective calls on the BMC to make a lasting commitment to keeping all open spaces accessible to the public.