Mumbai March Launches ‘10 Minutes For Mumbai’ Campaign To Push UNESCO World Heritage City Recognition For The Island City

Mumbai March, a volunteer group, has initiated a campaign advocating for UNESCO World Heritage City status for Mumbai, highlighting the city's geological, ecological, and cultural heritage spanning over 66 million years. Titled "10 Minutes for Mumbai," the campaign will debut on October 2 with an exhibition showcasing the city's heritage journey at The Radio Club's Radio Room in Colaba.

The group has submitted proposals to the Prime Minister, Maharashtra Chief Minister, and Municipal Commissioner, seeking official support for the city's UNESCO bid. The exhibition features 20 photographs by core members Srinivas Rao, Rajesh Prabhakar, and Pradeep Dhivar, which shift focus from Mumbai's skyline to its geological formations, mangroves, biodiversity, and historic settlements.

The show emphasizes Mumbai's ecological richness, featuring over 350 bird species, 162 butterfly species, wild leopards in Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Stone Age habitation sites, a 2,200-year-old Buddhist stupa, historic forts, religious sites, traditional Koli fishing villages, and industrial landmarks. A book, "Mumbai for UNESCO World Heritage City," curated by Dr. Hitendra Mehta, will be released during the event, documenting the city's geological and cultural legacy, including sites like Gilbert Hill, Sopara Stupa, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Banganga Tank, and various caves.

Among UNESCO's recognized World Heritage Cities are Rome, Kyoto, Dubrovnik, Ahmedabad, and Edinburgh.