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The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has cancelled its planned Bollywood-themed beautification Metro 2B project, which was to be developed between Bandra and Juhu, at an estimated cost of ₹300 crore. The decision was taken after strong public opposition and a continuous citizens' campaign led by former Bandra corporator
and Congress leader Asif Zakaria.
Cancellation of Metro 2B Project Beautification
Zakaria shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a big win for people's efforts. He wrote that "better sense has finally prevailed" and that the "wasteful" project was scrapped because citizens stood united against it. He added that he had raised concerns from the beginning and, with the help of residents who joined the signature campaign, the authorities were forced to take action. "People power wins," he declared. According to Zakaria, the decision was officially announced by Ashish Shelar, the guardian minister for the Mumbai suburban district and MLA from Bandra. Shelar announced during a meeting where various issues related to the western suburbs were discussed. He confirmed that he had instructed MMRDA to cancel the project and use the funds for more meaningful initiatives.
How Residents Reacted to the Development?
Bandra-based activist Naazish Shah, who led the signature drive, said that the protest gained support very quickly. Within just a few days, they managed to gather 600 to 700 signatures from residents. She explained that while locals welcomed efforts to improve green spaces, they were strongly against the idea of adding more plastic, concrete, or metal structures in the name of beautification. The citizens clearly told MMRDA officials that they wanted natural development, not flashy decorations. With this decision, residents feel encouraged that their voices were heard. The cancellation of the project highlights how collective public action can influence government planning and ensure funds are used wisely.
