Mulund Residents Rally for Hospital, Bus Terminus, and Cultural Center on Vacant Land

Introduction

Residents of Mulund East are mobilizing to transform 60 acres of underutilized land into a multifaceted community hub that would include an AIIMS hospital, a bus terminus, and a cultural center. Spearheaded by the Hari Om Nagar Apex Body Federation (HONAFE), the campaign has already garnered around 2,000 signatures, reflecting strong community support for this initiative.

 The Vision for Mulund

Sahebrao Survade, chairman of HONAFE, emphasized the potential of the vacant land, which previously served as a garbage dumping ground and an octroi naka. "This land can be repurposed for various uses that will benefit future generations," he stated, referencing a recent community garba event held on the site.

 Healthcare Needs

Residents are advocating for an AIIMS hospital, citing the nearest government facility, Rajawadi Hospital in Ghatkopar, as being an hour away. Survade also highlighted the importance of establishing a medical college to offer local educational opportunities in healthcare.

 Transportation Challenges

In addition to healthcare, residents are calling for a bus terminus, as the area has been without BEST bus services for the past five years. Madhusudan Gutti, a member of HONAFE, explained that residents currently have to walk to the highway to access public transportation. "Rickshaws only operate on shared trips to Thane," he added. The proposed bus terminus would not only serve local residents but also accommodate interstate buses, facilitating travel for students and commuters from nearby areas.

 Cultural and Recreational Facilities

The campaign also includes plans for a cultural center and sports complex, aiming to provide a space for artistic engagement and physical activities. Survade pointed out that past proposals for the land, including a commercial hub and residential rehabilitation projects, have not materialized, underscoring the need for a viable plan that meets community needs.

 Community Engagement and Future Steps

HONAFE is determined to expand its signature campaign to reach a target of 10,000, engaging residents from nearby areas such as Kopri and Naupada. Following this effort, they plan to present their demands to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and other local officials. "These services could benefit between 80,000 and 100,000 people," Gutti remarked, emphasizing the project's significance.

 Official Response

While the community's enthusiasm is evident, a representative from the BMC's assessment department expressed skepticism. The official noted that much of the octroi naka land has already been allocated for various municipal projects, leaving only five acres available for potential development. "The feasibility of their proposals can only be assessed later," he cautioned.