MMB to Revoke Bandra Bandstand Trust’s Maintenance Rights
By Business Desk
Maharashtra Maritime Board plans to revoke Bandra Bandstand Trust’s maintenance rights due to alleged unauthorized partnerships and financial non-compliance.
The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) intends to revoke the no-objection certificate (NOC) of the Bandra Bandstand Residents Trust (BBRT), aiming to reassume control over the promenade’s maintenance.
This decision follows allegations that BBRT entered an unauthorized partnership with USV Pvt Ltd and repeatedly failed to provide requested financial statements.
Key Financial Context
The MMB itself has invested significantly in the promenade’s upkeep.
Between 2019 and 2022, the maritime authority allocated ₹10.06 crore for major structural and beautification initiatives.
Unpacking the Allegations
The dispute escalated in May when a sign at the Central Garden entrance, displaying BBRT and USV Pvt Ltd as caretakers, prompted MMB action.
MMB subsequently removed this sign in June, replacing it with their own name, and initiated an inquiry into the financial arrangements between BBRT and USV Pvt Ltd.
Captain CJ Lepande, Regional Port Officer for Bandra Port, formally recommended the cancellation of BBRT’s NOC, advocating for direct MMB management of the 1.1km promenade.
Concerns Over Partnership and Transparency
A central issue is BBRT’s alleged partnership with USV Pvt Ltd for garden management without prior MMB approval, a requirement for such tie-ups.
Public dissatisfaction also emerged due to unauthorized restrictions imposed by BBRT, such as “No pets allowed” and “No cycling” signs, which MMB has since removed to restore full public access.
MMB’s investigation includes potential financial transactions between BBRT and other entities, noting BBRT’s failure to submit five years of annual accounts and audit reports despite multiple reminders.
An administrative notice was issued on August 10, 2026, regarding this non-compliance.
BBRT’s Counter-Statement
BBRT secretary Rusi Jabulee stated the trust maintains proper audited accounts and is committed to transparency, confirming a written response to MMB officials.
Jabulee clarified that USV Pvt Ltd has voluntarily maintained the Central Garden for over two decades, bearing its own costs without providing direct monetary contributions to BBRT.
The Path Forward
As the MMB continues its investigation, the focus remains on ensuring compliance with partnership regulations and financial transparency for public amenities.
The move underscores the board’s intent to directly oversee the maintenance of the Bandra Bandstand promenade going forward.