Art gallery, café, escalators: The first underground toilet Mumbai is planning

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has approved plans to create Mumbai's first underground toilet-cum-art gallery near Lion Gate in Kala Ghoda. This new facility aims to alleviate congestion in the heritage precinct. The underground structure will replace the current ground-level toilet and art gallery, with two compact ground-level entry blocks leading to a 1,668 square meter facility accessed via escalators.

The design includes an art gallery, cafeteria, BMC chowky (café-style food counter), and separate washrooms for women and men. The proposal was initially suggested by BJP corporator Makarand Narwekar, who raised concerns about the existing toilet and chowky disrupting pedestrian space.

Narwekar wrote to the civic chief, Ashwini Bhide, on October 20, urging the immediate demolition of the current Aspirational Toilet near Lion Gate in Colaba. He welcomed the BMC's decision to build the new underground facility, stating that it will eliminate congestion and upgrade civic infrastructure. The air-conditioned public convenience, equipped with modern escalators, will enhance Kala Ghoda's appeal as a premier tourist and cultural destination, while maintaining pedestrian rights.