Mumbai: The controversy over barricaded footpaths along Central Avenue in Powai’s Hiranandani Gardens has now reached the Canadian Consulate. Residents have sought its intervention with Brookfield, the Canadian-origin company undertaking the redevelopment of Citipark.In a letter dated August 12 to Canadian Consul General Jeff David, Powai Action Forum member Ratan Sharda said broad pavements used by residents for nearly 25 years had been barricaded or obstructed, leaving pedestrians without safe walking space and, at places, forcing them onto the road.Powai residents have complained that longstanding footpaths adjoining redevelopment sites were suddenly being claimed as private property.Sharda clarified that residents were not asking the Consulate to adjudicate on the ownership or legal status of the land. Instead, they have urged it to take up the community’s concerns with Brookfield’s Canadian and Indian leadership and encourage the company to demonstrate standards of responsible corporate citizenship.Residents have sought disclosure of approved plans and the basis on which the pedestrian areas are being claimed as private property. They have also demanded safe and continuous pedestrian access while the dispute is resolved, reconsideration of barricades and planters that impede movement, and Brookfield’s participation in a public meeting with residents and civic authorities.The letter points out that Central Avenue is a busy commercial stretch used daily by residents, children, workers and visitors. The absence of pavements, it says, poses particular risks to senior citizens, children and persons with disabilities.“Large international investors should strive to improve the communities in which they operate,” Sharda wrote, adding that pedestrian safety and everyday quality of life should not become secondary considerations.The Forum has asked the Consulate to acknowledge its representation and indicate whether the concerns can be conveyed to Brookfield’s senior management.Brookfield Properties had earlier said the construction had all requisite approvals in place, and the company complied with all applicable rules and regulatory requirements.
