Members of the Khar Residents Association, Pali Hill Residents Association, Amdedkar Road ALM, YMCA Road ALM and Union Park Residents’ Association along with local corporator Kavita Rodriguez handpicked architect PK Das to spearhead the effort.

“The beautification will give a good recreational spot for locals starved of open spaces. Though the outer stretch will be lighted by Reliance power, inside we will put up panels to harness solar energy. There are also plans to install a windmill. At the end of the stretch, there will be a large gazebo which can be used by slum dwellers to carry out their Ganesh puja,” said trustee of Khar Residents Association, Anandini Thakoor.

The challenge is now to maintain the stretch once the beautification is completed. “Considering that it’s a large stretch, we will outsource maintenance work to sponsors. Though we have got two sponsors we need more,” said Thakoor.

Slum dwellers have offered to do their bit. “Since the residents have generously given us permission to use the Gazebo during Ganesh Chaturthi, we will ensure that the cleanliness in the area is maintained. Also our children can use the area at night for studies. Since it is for our own good, we will make sure the place remains beautiful,” said a resident of seaside chawl, Haroon Mohammad Khokar.