Mumbai’s Kala Ghoda Makeover Nears Completion: A Major Boost to the City’s Cultural Streetscape

As Mumbai accelerates its urban renewal efforts, one of its most iconic cultural districts is on the verge of unveiling a striking transformation. The beautification of three key streets in Kala Ghoda has entered its final stage, signalling that the revamped public spaces may soon open to residents, tourists, and the city’s vibrant arts community. Spanning 3,443 square metres, the project aims to strengthen pedestrian-friendly design while preserving the precinct’s heritage character.

The initiative reflects a broader shift in Mumbai’s approach to city-making, one that prioritises high-quality public spaces, walkability, and culturally sensitive design. Kala Ghoda, already renowned for its heritage architecture and annual arts festival, now stands poised to become an even more inviting urban destination.

Senior Officials Conduct On-Site Review

The final-stage progress prompted a high-level on-site inspection on Thursday morning. Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani reviewed the upgraded stretches, accompanied by Nitin Karir, former Chief Secretary and Chairman of the Maharashtra State Finance Commission. Their visit highlighted the civic body’s urgency to complete several major beautification and infrastructure projects across South Mumbai.
Jaydeep More, Assistant Commissioner of E Ward, along with civic officers and support staff, joined the inspection team. They walked through the redesigned lanes, assessing finishing work, layout quality, and compliance with design standards. The review underscored the administration’s emphasis on creating public spaces that balance aesthetics with everyday utility.

Revitalising One of Mumbai’s Most Cherished Cultural Hubs

Kala Ghoda has long been synonymous with the city’s artistic identity. Home to galleries, museums, boutique stores, and heritage buildings, it attracts thousands of visitors during the annual Kala Ghoda Arts Festival. The ongoing beautification aims to enhance this cultural ecosystem by improving walkways, seating zones, lighting, landscaping, and overall pedestrian comfort.

Officials noted that the upgraded streets have been designed to seamlessly blend heritage features with contemporary urban design. Once opened, the area is expected to provide a more cohesive and inviting experience, strengthening Kala Ghoda’s position as a must-visit destination for residents and international tourists alike. Enhanced walkability and aesthetic improvements are also expected to support footfall-dependent local businesses.

A Thoughtfully Designed First Phase of Urban Improvement

The first phase of the project covers 3,443 square metres along a 500-metre stretch across three important roads: Dr V B Gandhi Marg, Rutherford Marg, and B Bhurucha Marg. These streets form a crucial network within the district, linking cultural institutions, commercial spaces, and pedestrian corridors.

The redesign places strong emphasis on pedestrian safety and a visually cohesive streetscape. Street edges have been reimagined to improve accessibility, reduce clutter, and create a more navigable public realm. Landscape elements, upgraded paving, and improved lighting collectively aim to enhance the daily experience of walking through the precinct.

A Step Forward in Mumbai’s Urban Renewal Strategy

With the beautification work nearing completion, civic officials expect the upgraded stretches to open to the public shortly. The project marks another milestone in Mumbai’s ongoing efforts to rejuvenate public spaces, particularly in South Mumbai, where heritage and modernity intersect.

More broadly, the Kala Ghoda upgrade illustrates how targeted urban interventions can revitalize neighbourhoods, strengthen cultural identity, and contribute to a more liveable city. By investing in high-quality public infrastructure, Mumbai continues to move toward a future where its streets serve not just as transit corridors but as shared spaces for community, creativity, and everyday life.