Mumbai: Congress MP from Bandra Varsha Gaikwad has written to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) chief Bhushan Gagrani seeking urgent attention towards upkeep of Bandra Talao (lake) – a Grade 2 Heritage site in Mumbai.
In her letter the MP has said that the Bandra Talao, once a serene spot for leisure and community engagement, has become a picture of neglect and decay. Demanding a immediate cleaning of plastic waste and algae in the lake water, Gaikwad highlighted that the clean-up of the lake is not for allowing citizens spend peaceful time but is matter of urgency as thr site is vital for preservation of local pride safeguarding culture and heritage.
Mumbaikars have welcomed move by MP and the Bandra residents have decided to start an online campaign called Initiating Change #SaveBandraTalao.
Zindaan Castellino, a 16 year old Environment activist from Bandra said, “Bandra Talao issue needs to be highlighted and it’s really good that our MP Varsha Gaikwad has asked for the Talao to be cleaned. It is a Grade II Heritage Site deserves to be clean. Dumping occurs on the Nutan Nagar Side of the Talao. And there is nobody to enforce fines and hence we can’t enjoy the beauty of the Talao as it is ruined by the sight of garbage and the stench!”
Zidaan added that In other countries, such waterbodies are cared for and the community appreciates it. If only the Talao could be maintained and kept clean then we can all enjoy walking around the Talao as a break from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai City.”
Citizen activists from Bandra said that the walkway of the lake is used by Drug Addicts and if the MP is keen on upkeep the heritage premises we welcome the Save Bandra Talao movement.
Bandra Talao is 200 years old, spread on around 7.5 acres of land. It is also referred as Swami Vivekanand Talao, formally known as Lotus Tank. The maintenance of the heritage lake and it’s premises falls under the municipal corporation.
