Mumbai Residents Upset over Victorian Gothic Street Furniture at Marine Drive Promenade

FDT Bureau

Residents of south Mumbai expressed dissatisfaction with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) installation of Victorian Gothic-themed street furniture at the promenade. Reportedly, they have written a letter to Municipal Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal, urging him to reconsider the design. The project is currently being implemented on a pilot basis, according to civic officials. Here is a detailed report on FURNITURE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY (FDT).

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reportedly had directed the BMC to upgrade existing civic amenities at the Marine Drive promenade, a world heritage site, including the construction of a toilet, a sea-side plaza and a sea-viewing jetty. In response, the BMC began installing benches and electric light poles opposite the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA), featuring a design inspired by Victorian Gothic style from the British era.

The Nariman Point Churchgate Citizen’s Association (NPCCA) has reportedly requested minimal design for the installed furniture, stating that Mumbai already has numerous Victorian Gothic-style buildings such as the Mumbai University, Rajabai Clock Tower and CSMT station. They believe that the 21st century calls for a more modern and minimalist design that harmonizes with the surroundings.

A local ward office official reportedly clarified that the furniture installations are part of an experimental pilot and if residents are dissatisfied with the design, the furniture can be removed. The BMC is currently testing various models as the Chief Minister has expressed interest in upgrading the infrastructure of Marine Drive.