Mumbai’s iconic Marine Drive is getting a lighting upgrade, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) installing 110 LED fixtures along the promenade. This ₹17 lakh project aims to improve night-time visibility, enhance public safety, and boost the scenic charm of the waterfront. Marine Drive, a favourite spot for locals, tourists, and fitness enthusiasts, faces poor street lighting issues, especially during major events like cricket matches at Wankhede Stadium. To address this, the BMC is installing permanent LED fixtures, eliminating the need for temporary lighting setups during crowded evenings.
The project involves installing 110 LED light fixtures under 55 trees along the stretch from the Air India Building to NCPA. These energy-efficient LED lights, ranging from 30 to 40 watts, will consume less power and require minimal maintenance while improving visibility, reducing dark spots, and enhancing security. The lighting will also complement the historic beauty of Marine Drive, making it more inviting at night.
Meanwhile, the BMC is developing a 7.5-kilometre-long promenade between Breach Candy and Worli as part of the Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP). This new 70-hectare open space will feature tree-lined pathways, a dedicated cycle track, and spacious walkways for citizens to unwind. Currently, the civic body is in the final phase of construction, working on concreting and paver block installation, with the promenade expected to open to the public by March this year.
Marine Drive, constructed in 1915, spans nearly three kilometers, separated from the Arabian Sea by a 20-foot-high seawall. However, the new LED lights will not cover the entire stretch, focusing mainly on pedestrian zones. With Mumbai’s skyline evolving, this urban upgrade ensures that Marine Drive remains a safe and vibrant space for residents and visitors alike. The project is expected to be completed within a month, adding a new glow to the city’s most loved waterfront.
Why the Upgrade?
Marine Drive is one of Mumbai’s most visited locations, drawing tourists, locals, and fitness enthusiasts throughout the day and night. However, poor lighting in certain stretches has raised concerns about safety and aesthetic appeal. The new LED lights will address these issues by ensuring better illumination, reducing dark spots, and enhancing energy efficiency.
What’s Next?
The installation work is expected to be completed in the coming weeks. Authorities are also exploring additional ways to beautify and secure Marine Drive, such as upgrading benches, improving footpaths, and deploying better security surveillance.
As one of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks, this LED lighting project is set to make Marine Drive even more vibrant, attracting tourists and giving locals a better experience. With this smart urban upgrade, the city takes another step toward modern, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing public spaces.
