Congress Opposes ₹702-Crore BMC Project, Says Civic Body Cannot Be “ATM” for Every Infrastructure Project

Mumbai, August 17, 2026: The Congress has opposed Item No. 10 before the BMC Standing Committee, concerning a proposed ₹702.44-crore underground pedestrian vestibule connecting the Mahalaxmi Racecourse/Science Centre Metro Station area with the Coastal Road and Worli Promenade.

The party clarified that it supports improved pedestrian safety and connectivity but objects to BMC being made the primary funding agency while MMRCL implements the project. The proposal includes ₹107.47 crore in 2026-27, with costs proposed to be recovered through TOD Premium under DCPR 2034.

Congress said BMC already faces around ₹8,000 crore in current-year payments and ₹28,000 crore in future liabilities, besides a ₹2.45-lakh-crore infrastructure project pipeline. It questioned whether uncertain future TOD revenue should be relied upon for present expenditure.

Recalling Centre-State cooperation after the 2005 floods, Congress cited BRIMSTOWAD and urged the Centre, Maharashtra Government, MMRCL/Railways and BMC to establish a clear cost-sharing mechanism.

The party demanded that the proposal be kept in abeyance until funding, TOD recovery and cost-escalation responsibilities are clearly defined. It also sought restoration of development funds for Opposition councillors.

“BMC cannot be the ATM for every infrastructure project,” Congress said, urging greater financial responsibility from the Centre and State.