Mumbai: The BMC's long-anticipated textile museum at India United Mills 2 & 3 in Kalachowki remains in limbo, 16 years after it was first conceived. Despite the completion of the first phase of development, efforts to find a suitable partner to develop, operate and maintain the sprawling 44,000 sq. m site at a standstill.
BMC Turns To CSR Model For Revival
The civic body invited Expression of Interest (EOIs) from reputed public companies and trusts to develop and maintain the site for 20 years. Hoping to attract suitable bids, the BMC has extended the deadline to revive this fading dream.
Envisioned in 2009 as a tribute to Mumbai’s vibrant textile industry and the working-class communities that powered it, the museum was planned following the National Textile Corporation’s transfer of land to the BMC under the Integrated Development Scheme.
The project was intended to preserve and celebrate the city’s industrial legacy through immersive exhibits, a library, an auditorium, an art gallery, and a public plaza. Yet despite its cultural significance, progress has been repeatedly delayed worsened by the pandemic and shifting civic priorities.
Textile museum at United Mill ...photos of work completed in phase | Photo Credits: Salman Ansari
Only 7,000 Sq.m Developed So Far
Out of the total area, only a 7,000 sq.m section began development under Phase 1 in 2019. After seven years, this portion is finally nearing completion. It includes textile-themed murals, an amphitheatre, a souvenir shop, and a 3D multimedia musical fountain set over a redeveloped pond.
To bring the remaining vision to life, the BMC recently pivoted to a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) model. In early July, EOIs were invited from private investors under CSR initiatives, offering a 20-year term to develop, operate, and maintain the museum.
Textile museum at United Mill ...photos of work completed in phase | Photo Credits: Salman Ansari
EOI Deadline Extended To August 13
“This project could require over Rs 100 crore, but unfortunately, there was no budgetary provision for it this year. We were hoping CSR partners would step in to advance this cultural landmark. Due to limited response, the EOI deadline has been extended to encourage a more competitive process,” said a senior civic official.
The initial EOI deadline of July 28 has now been extended to August 13 in hopes of attracting credible investors and finally setting the project in motion.
Heritage Efforts Underway
In parallel, additional groundwork is underway. A contract has recently been awarded for the construction of parking facilities, modern restrooms, and structural repairs to aging mill buildings.
The BMC also plans to appoint a historian to document the site's architectural and industrial legacy, while professional divers will conduct an underwater survey of the mill basements to assess their structural and heritage value.
