Mumbai is set to receive a landmark urban green space that many are already describing as the city’s own “Central Park.” Reliance Foundation Chairperson Nita Ambani has unveiled plans for the Coastal Road Gardens, a sprawling 130-acre public park being developed along Mumbai’s western coastline. Backed by an investment of approximately ₹400 crore and supported through Reliance Industries’ corporate social responsibility initiative, the project aims to create a large-scale ecological and recreational space featuring 60,000 trees, sports facilities and public promenades. With work already underway and 15,000 trees planted, the initiative represents one of Mumbai’s most ambitious urban greening efforts in recent years.
From Reclaimed Land to Public Green Space
The Coastal Road Gardens project is being developed on land reclaimed as part of Mumbai’s Coastal Road infrastructure programme. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had earmarked a significant portion of the reclaimed area for public open spaces and invited private organisations to participate in its development and long-term maintenance.
Several prominent corporate groups submitted proposals, but Reliance ultimately secured the project. The vision was to transform a section of the reclaimed coastline into a sustainable urban landscape that would combine environmental restoration with public recreation.
A Vision for Mumbai’s Green Future
Speaking about the project, Nita Ambani described it as a deeply personal effort aimed at giving back to Mumbai. She envisioned the gardens as a “green lung” for future generations and a space where residents could reconnect with nature while enjoying the city’s coastline.
The project is expected to feature extensive tree-lined walkways, landscaped plazas, cycling tracks and open areas overlooking the Arabian Sea. According to the plan, the gardens will be fully accessible to the public and designed to serve people across age groups and communities.
A team of landscape architects, ecologists, planners and engineers has been tasked with creating a master plan that combines international expertise with Mumbai’s unique urban identity.
Current Progress and Key Features
As of mid-2026, the project has moved beyond the planning stage. Approximately 15,000 trees have already been planted, representing a quarter of the eventual target of 60,000 trees.
Beyond environmental restoration, the gardens are expected to include a wide range of recreational facilities. Proposed amenities include spaces for cricket, football, tennis, basketball, kabaddi, padel and pickleball, alongside an underground sports arena and a 1,200-metre promenade.
The development will also feature attractions such as a tree museum and family-oriented public spaces, reinforcing its role as a civic and cultural destination.
Potential Impact on Mumbai
The significance of the Coastal Road Gardens extends beyond aesthetics. In a densely populated metropolis where open spaces are limited, the project could help address concerns related to air quality, urban heat and public well-being.
The large-scale plantation drive may contribute to improving environmental resilience, while the recreational infrastructure could enhance quality of life for residents. The project also reflects a growing trend of public-private collaboration in urban development and sustainability initiatives.
A New Urban Landmark in the Making
The Coastal Road Gardens project represents an ambitious attempt to balance development with environmental stewardship. By transforming reclaimed coastal land into a vast public green space, Mumbai has the opportunity to create a lasting urban landmark that promotes sustainability, recreation and community engagement. If successfully executed, the initiative could become a defining example of how modern cities can integrate infrastructure growth with ecological and public welfare goals.
(With agency inputs)
