The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to transform Mumbai's Kala Ghoda area into a pedestrian-only zone on weekend evenings, starting in September, as part of a broader initiative to boost tourism in the historic neighborhood.

Maharashtra Assembly Speaker and Colaba MLA Rahul Narwekar highlighted the significance of Kala Ghoda, describing it as an artistic hub housing iconic structures like the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalay, Jehangir Art Gallery, National Gallery of Modern Art, the Institute of Contemporary Art, and the Eliyahoo Synagogue. He emphasized that the vehicle-free initiative aims to enhance the area's cultural appeal.

Former Colaba corporator Makarand Narwekar, a key figure behind the project, noted that this plan is the first of many beautification efforts in Colaba. He outlined that five streets—Forbes Street, Rutherfield Street, Rope Walk Lane, Saibaba Road, and B Bharucha Road—will be part of the pedestrian-only zone.

"We're enhancing the area with new pavements, paintings, and lighting. Designated spaces with benches and tables will allow people to relax and enjoy meals from nearby restaurants. Ample parking will be provided in adjacent areas," he explained.

Narwekar also mentioned that the pedestrian-only streets are a novel concept for Mumbai, and citizen feedback will be essential to refining the project. For senior citizens and people with disabilities, RFID-based (Radio Frequency Identification) vehicle access will be available, with a speed limit of 20 km/hr in the restricted zone. "We're open to feedback from the public to further improve the initiative," he added.