Can we dare hope for a more liveable Mumbai in 2025?

A wishlist for Mumbai's future: challenges, needs, and the promise of better living. The dream of a liveable Mumbai should not remain a mere aspiration

- SMRUTI KOPPIKAR

The end of the calendar year is an apt time to take stock of key incidents that transpired, reflecting on the highs and lows of the past year, and creating a wishlist for the next. For Mumbai, the latter part is straightforward: we want, no, we demand a city that’s liveable in every respect for everyone.

This means an improved city where tall skyscrapers do not dwarf life on the streets, affordable housing becomes a reality, and pavements are built and maintained for walkers to use safely. Roads should be free of potholes and rough surfaces. Public transport systems must be developed comprehensively, without prioritising the metro alone. We envision many more gardens and open spaces that are maintained and accessible to all, protected trees, and rejuvenated water bodies. Cultural life should flourish in clean, welcoming public arenas. Public schools and colleges in every neighbourhood must be comparable to private institutions, and markets must not encroach on pedestrian spaces. Traffic discipline should be strictly enforced by police personnel.