Preserving Public Interest: A Call to Protect Mahalaxmi Racecourse Land

X: @the_news_21

In a move that defies the wishes of the people and disregards the concerns of various stakeholders, the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) has decided to proceed with the bifurcation of the Mahalaxmi Racecourse land. This decision, despite appeals from citizens, opposition from planners, environmentalists, and voices within the Opposition, reflects a disturbing trend of succumbing to the pressures of a corrupt government.

The Mahalaxmi Racecourse land is not the property of those in power or the administrative bodies; it belongs to the ordinary citizens of Mumbai. Yet, ‘secret’ negotiations and deals between government entities and the RWITC’s managing committee seem to be shaping the future of this vital public space without any meaningful consultation with the people or their elected representatives.

One must question the moral authority of the civic administrator, the RWITC, and even the state government in unilaterally deciding the fate of such a significant public asset. The absence of transparency and accountability in this process only adds to the suspicion of ulterior motives driving the decision-making.

As individuals who cherish Mumbai and its public spaces, it is incumbent upon us to raise our voices against this blatant land grab. The current government, having assumed power through questionable means, appears determined to exploit every inch of public open space in Mumbai, disregarding the severe environmental repercussions of such actions.

The Congress party stands firm in its demand to preserve the integrity of the Mahalaxmi Racecourse green. No construction, whether for pleasure or profit, should be permitted on this land. Instead, it should be safeguarded as a public park, accessible to all citizens. The RWITC’s decision to prioritize its interests over public welfare only reinforces the need for such protection measures.

Furthermore, past breaches of lease terms by the RWITC must be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate penalties should be levied to ensure accountability. The proceeds from these penalties can contribute to the preservation and enhancement of public spaces across Mumbai.

In conclusion, the looming threat of the Mahalaxmi Racecourse land being exploited for private gain highlights the urgent need for collective action. Let us unite in our resolve to stop this plunder of public resources and safeguard the heritage and environment of our beloved city. It’s time to halt the loot and save the Mahalaxmi Racecourse land for future generations.