Almost everyone coming to Bombay visits Colaba. Colaba Causeway is a major attraction for shopping, for Leopold Cafe, Taj Mahal Hotel and Cafe Mondegar. Colaba is also the place where VIPs also pass through because either they stay at the Taj or they land at the Naval helipad to avoid city commute n congestion. Even the Prime Minister's fleet of cars cross this famous road. Ambani and Ratan Tata cross this road every day. As do the top brass of Navy. It is also a hub for art lovers and souvenir seeking firangs.
The fact remains that it is 'the' place and yet it is the worst kept place. I have watched this place for years and I can say it has deteriorated over time. Crass commercialism and devil may care attitude has turned this wonderful place into an eyesore. The road side hawkers and stalls occupy major space. Their stalls are in the saddest state. Covered in tattered old bed sheets or cheap polyethylene sheets, these stalls look worse than shanties. There is no specified size for these stalls. Some are made of broken wooden pieces put together. Ironically these are placed right in front of the hi end branded stores blocking whatever neat window displays may be. Is it ignored on purpose?
Here is the story in pictures.
Look at this curio shop and garment shop on the pavement.
This is how the shops are visible on the road... the famous Colaba Causeway.
You have also shopped here, didn't you?
These are registered stalls on the Causeway...
No one notices?? Even the VIPs? The Tata and Ambanis? The people who can have a say but do not say? Why?
These stalls appear the shoddiest during rains. Look at these... sad souvenirs.
Oh boy, this is Cafe Mondegar? If only it was unobstructed by these stalls.
And this....
what date and time are we living? Freedom means this to us...
Blockages every where.
Next time you go there, check this out. The chaos in Colaba Causeway. I love this place but I would love it more if you join me in voicing this concern. Lets see how we can work out a model for "Swachh Sunder Colaba Causeway".
Your suggestions are awaited. Please write back to me
writingdollink@gmail.com
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