In a major push for the holistic development of Aarey Colony, Mumbai North West MP Ravindra Waikar on Tuesday performed the bhoomipujan for beautification works worth nearly Rs 150 million. The initiative aims to enhance the natural charm of the area, often referred to as the “lungs of Mumbai”, and attract both domestic and international tourists. Five separate beautification projects have been included in this phase. During the event, several newly completed internal roads—part of the earlier Rs 670 million road development programme initiated by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde—were also inaugurated. These include the Adarsh Nagar route, the Unit No. 5 to Royal Palms stretch, and a small bridge near Unit No. 11, all completed following Waikar’s continued follow-up. The ceremony was attended by Aarey CEO Shipoorkar, Executive Engineer (Public Works) Prashali Dighavkar, Priyanka Ambolkar, former corporator Rekha Ramvanshi, Manisha Waikar, Deepti Waikar-Potnis, local officials, Shiv Sena office-bearers, workers, and residents. Aarey’s iconic lake has long served as a site for Ganesh and Devi idol immersions. However, after the lake was brought under the Forest Department in 2020, the High Court imposed restrictions on immersions. Seeking to boost tourism and increase Aarey’s revenue, Waikar—since his tenure as MLA—has consistently pushed for lake beautification and the development of tourism infrastructure. In 2023, the District Planning Committee sanctioned Rs 150 million for the beautification of Aarey Lake. But delays by the Forest Department in granting permission meant the funds risked remaining unused. Waikar then proposed redirecting the approved amount to beautify other tourist-frequented spots in Aarey. Following his recommendation, the Public Works Division submitted a revised proposal to the District Collector, who approved it. Under the restructured allocation, the following works will be carried out: Phase 2 and Phase 3 beautification of Chhota Kashmir Garden, adjacent to Aarey Lake Upgradation and beautification of Veer Savarkar Garden in Aarey Milk Colony Renovation and beautification of the New Zealand Hostel premises Beautification of the area in front of Aarey’s Ganesh Lake Waikar expressed confidence that these projects will significantly enhance Aarey’s scenic appeal. He added that the improved infrastructure will encourage more visitors, strengthening tourism activity and positioning Aarey as a major nature destination within Mumbai. Once completed, the beautification works and upgraded internal roads are expected to transform Aarey’s landscape. Waikar reiterated that these developments—pursued for over four years—will enrich the area’s greenery and natural environment, ensuring that Aarey remains one of Mumbai’s most treasured ecological zones.