Mumbai: In a first for Mumbai’s civic gardens, the BMC has invited an expression of interest (EOI) to install a horse carousel at Cooperage garden on Madame Cama Road near Mantralaya, the administrative headquarters of the govt of Maharashtra.
Cooperage garden is also popularly known as “ghoda garden” as horse rides were available for visiting children as well as adults. This was discontinued following a tragedy in Nov 2017 when a six-year-old girl died after falling off a horse during a joyride.
The new project, estimated to cost Rs 1.5 crore, may be undertaken under a public-private partnership model, that is, the BMC will provide the land, and the successful bidder will submit the revenue model. The carousel may be designed considering one child or adult per animal, and very small children can ride in a chariot with an adult.
According to the EoI issued on Monday, a 5,000-square-foot open space in Cooperage Garden has been identified for a minimum 32-seater carousel. The civic body has emphasised the need for skilled operators and technicians to ensure smooth operations, regular maintenance, and, most importantly, safety. Officials said the selected bidder would have to design, manufacture, and install the carousel.
The BMC said a proposal was received from the assembly Speaker and Colaba MLA Rahul Narvekar for the carousel to regain the glory of the garden. Makarand Narwekar, former BJP corporator from Colaba, said, “By setting up the horse carousel, we aim to restore the glory of Cooperage ground and bring back visitors to Colaba.”