Finally the city, lately known for its slums, crowd, traffic congestion, and so on will have something new to talk about. The lost glory of the Mumbai will soon be restored by the new makeover moves that the tourism department has planned. The proposed new setup is to promote Mumbai as a new tourist destination. Apart from the revamp and restoration of existing monuments or places of visits, the tourism department has also plans for economy budget hotels, amusement parks, and get-together centers across the city. Let’s see what the new Mumbai by 2011 have in store for us and its visitors.
- Forts: The MTDC along with some archaeological experts will take up the restoration and restructuring of six forts viz. Sewri, Worli, Sion, Bandra, Mahim, and Vasai. You will not only find these forts beautified but also furnished with facilities like signboards, seating arrangement, toilets, amphitheaters, and landscape gardens. We should possibly see these forts by 2007 end.
- Filmcity tours: We will now be able to see and experience the place where most of our bollywood movies are shot. MTDC plans to make Filmcity, near Goregaon (East), a tourist spot, where you will have guided tours to see around the place. So be set to plan your visit to Flimcity next month onwards and be sure to keep your eyes wide open as, you might just see your darling actor/actress dancing or doing some scene.
- Global pagoda: This monument has already opened on 29th October 2006 and you can visit it if you are looking to find some peace away from the city and meditate. Situated in Gorai, the structure is 96 meters high and can house around 8000 people. The pagoda will have artifacts of Buddha and will be considered as a knowledge center for vipassana students, Buddhists, and researchers.
- Metro rail: Come 2011 and you will be able to travel in metros like to do in Delhi or even in foreign countries. Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar work has already begun and after completing pilot surveys the second phase will soon kick off. Impressive, isn’t it?
- Mahim’s Marine Drive: The city might have a second necklace with the shore near Mahim-Bandra being cleaned and beautified. The entire stretch will be artistically lighted and you may have ferry rides from the shore to forts at Bandra and Mahim.
- Polished Necklace at Marine Drive: our existing queen’s necklace at Marine Drive will be renovated to match the international standards. You will find amenities like landscaped gardens and green islands, contemporary lighting, seating areas, amphitheater, and so on. You can enjoy the new scenic beauty after Jun-July 2007.
- Get in from Gateway: The Gateway of India near Apollo Bunder will invite international luxury cruise liners after its new setup as an international cruise terminal. The surrounding area will have delightful parks, cozy cafes and restaurants. You can also enjoy yachts rides and travel by trans-harbour jetty.
As I finish writing I realize that there are seven mega projects that go towards the makeover of Mumbai, an archipelago of seven islands. Though there are few setbacks and some things still on paper, let us hope that Mumbai shines again with modern day aesthetics, yet preserving its monumental pride.
Source Courtesy: Hindustan Times (Oct 28, 2006), Mumbai Edition
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