Mumbai: The area around Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and the BMC headquarters, a key tourist spot, is set for a makeover. The Municipal Sports Complex, located in front of the BMC building, will be redeveloped into a state-of-the-art ‘Town Hall Gymkhana' (THG) with unique architectural features. The civic body has initiated a tender process for the project.
The entire area surrounding CSMT, the BMC headquarters, and its vicinity is part of one of Mumbai’s most significant heritage precincts. A few years ago, the BMC set up a selfie point in in front of the headquarters to allow visitors to appreciate the architecture of these heritage buildings.
However, there were no additional facilities to view these historic buildings and the entire precinct from a closer or panoramic perspective. To address this gap, the BMC has decided to develop a ‘THG’.
BMC to redevelop Municipal Sports Complex into Town Hall Gymkhana with a glass dome and panoramic viewing gallery near CSMT | File Photo
As per the plan, the building will consist of a ground floor and five additional floors. It will house a Municipal Council Hall and a restaurant. Tourists will have the convenience of reaching the viewing gallery on the rooftop via glass capsule lifts. This gallery will allow a closer and better view of the surrounding heritage buildings.
Additionally, a glass dome will be constructed on the rooftop, designed to complement the surrounding heritage structures. Visitors will also be able to enjoy panoramic views of the area from this dome.
"THG will provide parking for around 60 vehicles across two basement levels. This design ensures the visual integrity of the surrounding heritage precinct while offering both tourists and the public panoramic views of the area," said a senior civic official.
The concept for the structure was developed by the BMC's architectural department. The tender process for construction has been initiated by the Sub-Engineer (Building Construction - City) Department, and construction will commence soon after the tender process is complete, confirmed the official.
Meanwhile, a proposal has been put forward to construct a sports complex for civic employees at Tulsi wadi, near the Mahalaxmi Racecourse. "It is easily accessible by railway and Mumbai Coastal Road, allowing employees from all departments to benefit from the facilities. The planned sports complex will include badminton courts, table tennis, a modern gym, and a swimming pool among other amenities," official added.
