Mumbai's 'Green Necklace': A 70-Hectare Coastal Oasis Takes Shape by 2026
Mumbai's Coastal Road Gardens is set to open within three seasons on 70 hectares of reclaimed land. The project, led by the Reliance Foundation, will transform the area alongside the city's southern coastal road. Renamed by Nita Ambani, the initiative aims to create a lush 'Green Necklace' near Marine Drive's iconic Queens Necklace.
The gardens will span 5.5 kilometres, with Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) handling its long-term operation and maintenance. The design allocates 55% of the space to forests and woodlands, while 25% will serve as open recreational areas. Another 10% is reserved for pathways, and the remaining 10% will feature plazas.
Visitors can expect a mix of leisure and activity spaces. Key attractions include garden trails, an amphitheatre, and a Sunset View Gallery. Other highlights are Nexus Park, pickleball courts, an art gallery, a Ferris wheel, and a Festival Plaza. For sports and fitness, the site will offer a maidan, outdoor gyms, social gardens, and children's play areas.
The project will provide seven entry points along the route. These include Napean Sea Road, Breach Candy, Haji Ali, Mahalaxmi, Worli South, and Worli North. However, details on the current status of these access points remain unclear.
Funded at an estimated cost of Rs 400 crore, the gardens mark a major addition to Mumbai's public spaces. The Reliance Foundation's involvement underscores its scale and ambition as a green urban retreat.
The Coastal Road Gardens will introduce a blend of nature, recreation, and culture to Mumbai's waterfront. Once complete, the site will offer residents and tourists a sprawling green escape. Its success will depend on the timely completion of access points and ongoing maintenance efforts.
