BMC Halts Rs 60 Crore Regal Junction Underground Parking and Viewing Deck Project, Sparking Public Concerns

Mumbai: The future of a Rs 60 crore underground parking and viewing deck project at Regal Junction has become uncertain, as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has placed a hold on the development. Makarand Narwekar, a former BJP corporator, has written to the BMC Commissioner, Bhushan Gagrani, seeking clarity on the stay order. This is the third such letter from Narwekar, highlighting a trend of halted public works projects in the area.

Narwekar pointed out that the Regal Junction project is the third one to be stalled, following similar projects at Kala Ghoda and Colaba Causeway. The plan for Regal Junction included creating underground parking for around 150 cars and bikes, with a viewing deck on top. Currently, only 50 cars can park in the open space near Regal Cinema.

Narwekar explained that the goal of the project was to attract more tourists to the Colaba area. “With a viewing deck at Regal Junction, visitors would have a clear view of several landmarks, including the state's DG office, Regal Cinema, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalay, and the National Gallery of Modern Art,” he said.

He expressed frustration with the BMC’s decision to halt the project, especially after all necessary approvals were obtained. “We received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the traffic police and approval from the Heritage Committee. The entire process took over a year, and now the BMC has put a stay on the project. How are we supposed to explain this to the public? Is politics more important than the convenience of the people?” Narwekar questioned.

In his letter to the BMC Commissioner, Narwekar requested a clear explanation for the stay and emphasized that the community is eager to see the project move forward. He urged the BMC to communicate any issues in writing, as the project’s approval and funding have already been secured.