Dadar flyover garden is our collective responsibility

Some seating areas give respite. Pic/Shadab Khan

The buzzing Dadar TT area has got a new garden underneath the flyover. It was inaugurated this weekend. The massive space, taking up more than one acre, started in 2019, has been opened to the public.

It stands smack bang between Mumbai's busiest roads, the Dadar hub and will surely give some respite and relief, it is a break away from the grey concrete and sea of cars that dot this area. We can expect the same heavy rush once things go back to ‘normal' and the lockdowns further ease depending on the outbreak situation.

A garden, even a slice of green in a city that is crying out loud for such spaces is always welcome. What is pertinent is the corporator's words in the report in this paper. He said that he wished the public would use this space with the same care and respect that they do with their amenities at home.

We second that and hope that locals will realise the value of the ‘gift' they have been given. Critics and many of these well-intentioned may point out shortcomings, or, ask about stretched deadlines.

What is important though is that a garden has been made and now we have to ensure that it stays that way, in good condition so that whoever wants a little away time from the frenzy, can find it under this flyover.

Those in charge have to ensure security and good lighting, and keep criminal elements out. People have to ensure discipline while enjoying the space. We also need to guard against this space not becoming a happy hunting ground for political meetings, functions and dharnas, we often see such takeovers of public grounds in the city. Let us all have a stake in our city's upkeep of facilities, this ensures a win-win situation for all.