The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has informed the Bombay High Court that it issued a work order on January 28 for the restoration of the historic Banganga Tank precinct in Walkeshwar. This development comes in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking the conservation of this Grade I heritage site.
In its affidavit, the BMC stated that all encroachments around the Banganga Tank have been cleared, paving the way for a phased restoration and rejuvenation of the area. The civic body is currently in the process of transferring funds to the Public Works Department’s harbour engineering division for the construction of a retaining wall between the tank and the Arabian Sea. Additionally, a tender has been floated for the installation of a valve to control the outflow of water from the tank, with approvals being sought for both the retaining wall and the valve.
The Banganga Tank, managed by the Gaud Saraswat Brahmin Temple Trust, had been plagued by encroachments. Following a meeting in 2023, where the trust requested assistance, the BMC issued notices to individuals occupying the steps of the tank, asking them to provide documentation proving their eligibility for rehabilitation under the state government’s policy dated May 16, 2015. Subsequently, the encroachments were removed, and the site was cleared.
The affidavit further revealed that 13 occupants of the cleared structures have been deemed eligible for alternative housing in ongoing slum rehabilitation projects in Malabar Hill or nearby areas. The BMC has requested the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) to accommodate these individuals. On August 8, 2023, the SRA permitted Codcons Infra to allocate 116 units in their Malabar Hill project for those affected by the Banganga restoration initiative.
The restoration project aims to revitalize the Banganga Tank, a 12th-century rectangular step-water tank reminiscent of the ghats in Varanasi. Plans include restoring its heritage appearance, reviving the submerged Ram kund (Ram’s pond), clearing encroachments, and enhancing public facilities in the vicinity.
The Bombay High Court has directed the Maharashtra government to respond to the survivor’s plea and detail the actions taken against the investigating officer. The court also emphasized the importance of expediting the trial, given the young age of the survivors.
The BMC’s commitment to restoring the Banganga Tank underscores the importance of preserving Mumbai’s rich cultural and historical heritage. The successful completion of this project is anticipated to rejuvenate the site, making it a focal point for both devotees and tourists, while ensuring the conservation of its historical significance.
