Bigger Seating Arrangement, Light And Sound Show: Ready For A New And Improved Gateway Of India?

The most iconic monument and of course, Mumbai-cha shaan, the Gateway Of India is all set to get a makeover. Despite being one of the most visited sites in the city, the Gateway does not have any proper infrastructure for site management and also lacks facilities for visitors.

Abha Lambah, a conservation architect who has proposed three proposals for the makeover told Hindustan Times, “The design has been made to integrate all the requirements such as creating the right facilities and infrastructure and at the same time ensuring visual access to a visitor so that he or she can see the Gateway of India and the sea. A facility will also be developed to [ensure] the [visibility of] imposing [nearby] statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, which is currently sort of lost in all the visual clutter.”

The proposal plans to integrate a light and sound show, proper seating area for visitors and also an introduction to Maharashtra. The plan also takes into account a proper crowd management system and security arrangements. The state tourism department plans to hold the most modern light and sound show in the city with a new theme every week. The themes will range from Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Marathas, freedom movement, and many more.

The caretaking of the Gateway is divided amidst various agencies and a highly integrated approach was needed for the facelift. The monument was built in the 20th century to commemorate the arrival of King George V and Queen Mary in India in 1911. It has been an important part of Mumbai’s heritage since then.

Are you ready for a new Gateway? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

News Source: Hindustan Times