Activists take bull by the horns, say no to events at open spaces

Citizens have raised objections against the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) decision to allow events to be held at open spaces in the city as they believe it will set a wrong precedent.

Anil Joseph, an activist from Bandra, had objected to a musical show organised at the Carter Road promenade by a Bandra-based NGO and supported by a local politician. “It is possible that many politicians might exploit the decision in the future leaving citizens without any open spaces. If they wish to organise events, they should do so in private halls or grounds,” he said.

Joseph pointed out that Mount Mary road in Bandra was shut from 10am to 5pm for a soap box race last month. “It caused a lot of inconvenience to citizens. The BMC and police should not give such permissions any more. I have written a letter in this regard to the municipal commissioner and police commissioner,” said Joseph adding that the city has very little open spaces left.

Nikhi Desai, an activist from King Circle, said open spaces are left in a mess after such events are held. “A religious organisation has been organising an event at Five Gardens in Dadar for the last few years and leave it in a bad state. I had clicked photographs and brought the situation to the notice of the BMC last year, which assured that no permission will be given. I wonder how they got permission to hold the event this year,” said Desai.

Ward officials, however, remained unavailable for comment.