Mumbai: Want to protect your parks and open spaces from the civic administrations grand plans? Take a cue from Mahim residents who have decided to give Ramakrishna Hari Udyan near Hinduja hospital a facelift.

In an attempt to improve the condition of traffic, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had earlier proposed building a car park under the garden. However, following the public outcry and severe opposition from local activists, the plan was shelved.

To ensure its safety, Mahim residents and members of Kridangan Sangopan Samiti (KRISS), have now decided to give the garden a makeover.

"A senior civic official told us that the best way to stop construction of the car park was by beautifying the garden. This will keep the open space safe from the clutches of politicians and bureaucrats," said Jayant Majli, founder trustee, KRISS.

Majli further said that they have already made a proposal to the BMC and are now waiting for the approval.

When contacted, NV Pai, assistant municipal commissioner, G-north ward, said that they had already sent the proposal to the superintendent of gardens for approval.

KRISS plans to spend around Rs10 lakh on the project. "We are mostly banking on corporate sponsorship to help us out," said Nagesh Kini, founder trustee, KRISS.

Talking about the elements that will be introduced in the garden, Kini said that they plan to build a separate walking track for senior citizens on the periphery of the lawn. "We will replace the grass with Mexican grass that will require less water. Also, we will plant a lot of colourful and fragrant flowers." There will also be a meditation corner, skating rink and a children's corner.

"The highlight of this makeover will be the seating arrangement which face the sea so that you can get a good view of the sunset and the Bandra-Worli Sealink," added Kini.

Source : DNA