Mumbai: BMCs Regal Cinema Circle Beautification Project Faces Heritage Row Over Approval, Design Concerns

The BMC floated a tender for the Regal Cinema circle beautification project, facing opposition from Colaba residents concerned it will damage the area's Art Deco heritage.

The Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee (MHCC) directed a hold on the project in April 2026 until all approvals are obtained, and requested a revised proposal addressing traffic and planning concerns.

The project includes realignment of medians and traffic islands, installation of basalt and granite cobblestones, relocation of the Vikrant Memorial, and heritage-style lamp posts.

MHCC's letter also sought reconsideration of a proposed one-way route on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (CSM) Road, citing potential traffic issues and adverse public impact.

Residents, including Pervez Cooper of the Clean Heritage Colaba Residents Association, argue the project will deteriorate Colaba's heritage, calling it 'vandalism'.