On higher ground

<div class="section1"><div class="Normal"><span style="" font-style:="" italic="">Restoration plan mooted for Cross Maidan </span><br /><br />Imagine chatting up friends in a landscaped garden next to the Churchgate station before boarding a train home. It may just become a reality, thanks to the decision taken by the state government to hand over 23,000 sq yards of the Cross Maidan to the city-based NGO – Organisation for Verdant Ambience and Land, the Oval Trust, to turn in into a recreational ground.The Trust had previously successfully restored the next door Oval maidan in 1999.<br /><br />Given for restoration on a lease of five years, the Oval Trust submitted their restoration plan prepared by architect Rahul Gore, to the BMC''s heritage committee for approval.<br /><br />But the task is tough as the Cross maidan today has become a centre for illegal hawkers, drug sellers and dumping ground. Nestled amongst all this are the statues of the city''s luminaries like Harmusji Dinshaw and Gopal Krishna Gokhale, not to mention the Parsi well. The southern pavement is a sea of pedestrians traversing to and fro from Churchgate station using the subway. "As per the Mumbai High Court order, 90 days a year, the southern part of the maidan should be given for circus, fairs etc. No one takes care of the space once such activities are over," points out Shirin Bharucha, trustee, Oval Trust.<br /><br />The new design plan of the cross maidan identifies it''s potential to be converted into a much-needed public space in busiest area of South Mumbai. After fencing, two entrances have been proposed – one set back from the fence at Veer Nariman road, which will accommodate the statues and the other at second at the northwest side, for services. A walking track surrounded by trees has also been planned. A circular paved area has been marked for the circus and other events to ensure that the tents are organised at one place itself.<br /><br />The main thrust is not to hamper the public use of the garden which will be open from 7 am to 10 pm. "Our main concern is funds since the entire cost of the project is Rs 2 crores and another Rs 2.5 crores are required to maintain the same for five years. We can charge a Re one entrance fee, except for students and children," adds Nayana Khatpalia, trustee, Oval Trust.<br /><br />So when the work begin? "As soon as the Collector removes the hawkers and we can protect the land," explains Bharucha. "It will be a great urban public space which will revive the city," concludes Khatpalia.</div> </div>