The much-awaited opening of Mumbai’s first elevated nature trail at Malabar Hill has been delayed until next month, as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) works on implementing visitor regulation measures. Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani has directed the Information Technology (IT) department to develop an electronic crowd management system that will control the number of visitors to the site.
The elevated walkway, which is set to offer breathtaking views of Girgaum Chowpatty and the surrounding areas, is designed to accommodate up to 400 people at a time. In order to avoid overcrowding, the IT system will monitor visitor numbers and prevent entry once the capacity is reached. The gate will only open once visitors exit, allowing a smooth flow of foot traffic. Originally scheduled for a mid-January opening, the walkway’s debut has been postponed until the implementation of the new safety measures. Gagrani explained, “The walkway has the capacity to hold 400 people at a time, and in case of overcrowding, it may collapse. I have instructed the IT department to develop an electronic mechanism to control the crowd and freeze entry once the limit is reached.”
This unique walkway spans 470 meters in length and 2.4 meters in width, and is built using an elevated wooden deck, railings, and vertical supports. The BMC also plans to illuminate the walkway in its entirety. CCTV cameras have been installed for added surveillance, and the civic body intends to charge a fee for access, though the specifics of the pricing structure are yet to be finalised. In addition to crowd control, safety measures will restrict visitors from carrying food, as it could attract monkeys. Only water bottles will be allowed to ensure a safe and pleasant experience. The Rs 25 crore project, which began in 2021, is expected to become a popular tourist destination once completed. With the newly introduced crowd management system and other safety protocols in place, the walkway promises to be an iconic addition to the city’s landscape.