When we think of Mumbai, the first thing that comes to mind is the iconic Marine Drive. The three-kilometre-long promenade along the natural bay of Mumbai offers a marvellous view of the Arabian Sea. Recently, the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation), the city’s municipal body, has proposed a plan of building barricades on dividers located on the road stretch. Here’s what you need to know about the Marine Drive barricade proposal.
Mumbai’s Marine Drive To Get Barricades!
The Marine Drive’s north and southbound carriageways are currently divided by a single divider. But because the dividers are not particularly tall, people frequently cross the highways without using the zebra crossing, which causes accidents. To prevent them, the municipal body has decided to set barricades. Along with BMC administrator Iqbal Singh Chahal and Additional Commissioner Asheesh Sharma, the region was recently reviewed by the chief minister, Eknath Shinde.
Additionally, the Mumbai traffic police assessed both sides of the street and noted hazardous locations. The civic organisation had also been asked by the traffic police to take action to stop people from jaywalking on the roads.
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Reports stated that the civic organisation will invest about ₹82 lakhs in it. According to BMC representatives, this followed letters from the Federation of Churchgate Residents, Marine Drive traffic division, and Senior Police Inspector asking for the installation of barricades and railing to prevent unauthorised pedestrian crossings and to improve the aesthetic appeal of the central midway.
Earlier, There Have Been Accidents Near The Queen’s Necklace
Marine Drive, also known as Queen’s Necklace, is not only a tourist attraction but also an accident spot. Over the years, several accidents have occurred here. In May 2020, a speeding car slammed into a stationary bus which was used by the ferry workers. Victims were rushed to the hospital soon after the accident took place. Another accident took place near Marine Drive in November 2022. A biker died on the flyover near Marine Drive after his bike skidded and collided with the bridge.
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This decision was taken in order to stop these accidents and make the promenade a safer place for people.
Mumbaikars, what are your thoughts about this decision?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva