BMC to Turn Mahalaxmi Racecourse into Central Park

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to transform a 120-acre portion of the Mahalaxmi Racecourse into a vast open green space, modeled on iconic landmarks like London’s Hyde Park and New York’s Central Park.

According to civic officials, the new space will feature pathways, walkways, and sitting areas for citizens, but no amusement park-style constructions or commercial real estate developments will be allowed. The BMC emphasized that the land will remain under its ownership, ensuring that no private entities will have stakes in the property.

Key Highlights

• BMC to convert 120 acres of Mahalaxmi Racecourse into a Hyde Park-like green space
• Land to remain fully under BMC’s ownership, with no private stake
• RWITC retains 91 acres under lease until 2053 for race and event use

The move follows the signing of a historic lease agreement in July 2024 between the BMC and the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC). Of the total 211-acre plot, 120 acres have been transferred to BMC, while the remaining 91 acres have been leased back to RWITC until May 2053.

The proposal to convert the racecourse grounds into a theme park-like green zone was first floated in 2013, but delays in lease renewal decisions stalled progress. For a decade between 2013 and 2023, the BMC did not collect rent from RWITC.

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Currently, the Mahalaxmi Racecourse serves not only as a venue for derby races but also as a host for concerts and large-scale public events. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed that no construction will take place on the land, and the vision is to create a world-class central park-style facility open to all citizens of Mumbai.