Delay in civic body funding stalls temple beautification project; Navratri deadline likely to be missed

Mumbai, August 26, 2025 – The much-anticipated beautification of the Mahalaxmi temple precinct in Mumbai has come to a halt. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has not yet released the funds required for the project. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde launched the renovation in July 2023 with great fanfare. Its first phase aimed to upgrade the sacred surroundings with modern amenities. Plans included granite flooring, better illumination, and improved pedestrian pathways.

However, officials have suspended the work for over a month. This delay has raised concerns that the precinct may miss the crucial Navratri deadline in October. Civic officials placed the project’s value at ₹26 crore.. Contractors, however, allege that despite repeated reminders, the BMC has not issued the purchase order (PO) needed to continue.

“The proposal has been pending for more than a year. “We have already invested resources and completed the initial site work,” the contractor stated in a letter to the BMC. “But further progress on illumination, flooring, and other key infrastructure has stalled due to lack of funds.”

The temple precinct attracts lakhs of devotees during Navratri, and the delay has sparked frustration among worshippers and local leaders. Deputy Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani has assured that he will review the situation and expedite necessary approvals.

Officials expected Phase 1 of the plan to improve the pedestrian experience around the temple. It also aimed to streamline entry and exit points. In addition, the project planned to enhance safety through new CCTV installations. Without immediate financial intervention, however, the project risks derailing festive preparations.

Local sources say the civic body is struggling with fund allocation due to competing infrastructure priorities across Mumbai.The Mahalaxmi temple project is both a religious and cultural landmark. It is also vital for Mumbai’s tourism and heritage preservation. Without swift action, the temple may face another festive season in incomplete and disrupted conditions. This could disappoint thousands of devotees.

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