Mumbai: Metro work shakes historic Kalaram Mandir in Girgaon

Mumbai a city where heritage and modern development constantly intersect is facing yet another collision between the past and the future The historic Kalaram Mandir in Girgaon renowned for its deep cultural significance has reportedly suffered structural cracks allegedly due to the ongoing Metro 3 construction work nearby This temple a revered place for thousands of worshippers and a symbol of Mumbairsquos rich history is now at risk sparking concern among locals devotees and heritage conservationistsA glance at Kalaram Mandirrsquos heritageThe Kalaram Mandir established over a century ago stands as one of Mumbairsquos treasured heritage sites Dedicated to Lord Ram the temple is known for its unique black stone idol from which it derives its name ldquoKalaramrdquo Kala meaning ldquoblackrdquo and Ram for Lord Ram This architectural marvel has been a pillar of devotion for Mumbaikars and attracts numerous visitors particularly during Ram Navami and other Hindu festivalsThe impact of Metro 3The Mumbai Metro 3 project intended to alleviate the cityrsquos congestion woes has already stirred controversies While the project promises significant advancements in Mumbairsquos transport infrastructure it has inadvertently placed several historical buildings at risk due to the vibrations and groundwork necessary for tunnel boring The case of Kalaram Mandir is an example of the unintended consequences of largescale urban projects on the cityrsquos architectural legacyCracks inside and outside of the templeSameer Ranjit a trustee of the temple stated We noticed the cracks on October 29 and placed white tapes on them to monitor any changes We then contacted MMRC authorities immediately as Metro 3 construction is ongoing behind the temple However we are unsure of the exact cause of the cracksThe following day MMRC officials visited the temple to inspect the cracks he said As a precaution they installed devices to monitor the cracks and added cement beneath the temple to stabilize the structure This was done by drilling a few holes behind the building to inject the cementHe added We trust that the MMRC will take steps to address the cracks fully ensuring the structure remains unaffected in the futureWhat do officials have to sayMMRC officials stated that the cracks are not dangerous and the structure remains stable They plan to proceed with repair work after receiving the structural audit reportldquoWe are nearly finished monitoring the cracks that appeared at the temple In the next few days we expect to receive our structural audit report after which we will proceed with the repairs as recommended by the auditorrdquo an MMRC official saidWhen asked about the cause of the cracks the MMRC official explained ldquoThe temple is built on sandy soil The back of the temple is constructed entirely of stone while the front portion is made of wood This combination led to the development of cracks However these cracks are not dangerous and the structure remains stablerdquoVoices from the communityAs news of the damage to Kalaram Mandir broke locals and temple authorities voiced their concerns calling for immediate actionldquoWe understand the importance of Metro 3 but the value of heritage cannot be measured merely in economic termsrdquo says Yatin M a resident and longtime devotee at Kalaram Mandir ldquoThese cracks are not just on the walls of a building they are cracks in the spirit of our communityrdquoThe templersquos priest also expressed concerns remarking ldquoRecently we also noticed that some of the marble flooring was cracked and became uneven We have seen this temple stand through generations through storms and sunshine If the cracks deepen we risk losing a part of our collective historyrdquoThe broader debate Development vs HeritageThis incident adds to a growing conversation about how best to balance Mumbairsquos modern infrastructure needs with its heritage preservation responsibilities Mumbai a city known for its rich cultural mosaic faces mounting pressure to expand and modernise but the cost of this development often appears to be paid by the cityrsquos historic landmarksldquoDevelopment is essential but not at the cost of erasing our pastrdquo said Ramesh Kadam a 70yearold Girgaon resident ldquoMumbairsquos essence lies in its heritage There should be stronger regulations and more thorough risk assessments in place before any construction near heritage sites beginsrdquoA call to actionFor many Mumbaikars the recent events at Kalaram Mandir underscore the need for a new approach to city planning one that harmonises development with the preservation of cultural heritage Locals have urged the government to implement better safeguards for all heritage structures in proximity to urban projects