The Association of Colaba and Cuffe Parade Residents (ACCPR) is a group formed by those residing at Colaba and Cuffe Parade, ones who have joined hands to protect the green spaces of this area where the proposed Metro-III is to be setup. We have been working towards increasing awareness about the importance of preserving greenery, one that is sustained over time owing to the persistent care taken by those living in this neighbourhood.
Ours is a newly-formed association, and we have been fighting regarding several issues; a major one being saving the Colaba Woods garden. This garden is nothing less than an oasis as it is accessed by people from all stratas of the society. The area behind this garden houses a huge slum, where thousands of kids stay. They use the garden space to study under specially-installed lights. Unlike other green spaces in the area, which either have restricted-entry or charge a fee, Colaba Woods is a free space.
We are very worried that in no time, this green cover will perish and the trees will be hauled off. If the garden is demolished, everyone in Cuffe Parade will likely miss it.
Colaba Woods has a basketball court, and is very popular with walkers, especially senior citizens, who access this space for their morning and evening walks. The elderly also have a laughing club for their recreation. Over time, this garden has created a community for the residents of Cuffe Parade, and now it is a need of the neighbourhood.
This garden is also a zone for biodiversity. It includes bats, which are hardly found these days. If the Woods is razed, there will be a depletion of the diverse birds, butterflies and flowers found here.
We have actively engaged with the MMRDA/MMRCL and other government agencies to defend these precious greens. While we are not against development, we do feel that no garden in the city should be razed. Also, considering the way our government works, we don’t trust them to complete the project in the number of years they’ve promised.
