Pali Village Residents Clash With New Cafes Over Commercialization of Bandra Gaothan
The ongoing commercialization of the historic Pali Village gaothan in Bandra has sparked a tense debate between local residents and new business owners over zoning laws, safety, and community preservation. The opening of commercial establishments like the Book Bar cafe in May has highlighted the clash between businesses seeking unique, affordable spaces and a community fighting to protect its residential zone.
Pali Village, which is categorized as a residential zone, has seen a recent influx of cafes, bookshops, and boutique stores. Longtime resident Neil Pereira, founder of the Pali Gaothan East Indian Association, questioned the legality of these businesses. He raised concerns over fire safety in the densely wired, historic neighborhood, noting the risk of electrical circuit overload from high power demands.
Other residents have flagged immediate infrastructure strains. S Gonsalves, a Pali Village resident, stated that high-horsepower pumps used by commercial outlets are drawing water before domestic tanks can fill, affecting the local water supply. Pereira added that the gaothan's drains were not built for the extra footfall, leading to overflowing sewage lines in some areas.
Business owners argue they are trying to coexist mindfully. Avneesh Gadgil, co-founder of Book Bar—which operates out of a former AC repair shop and inherited its commercial license—stated the cafe halts interior work during the afternoon to accommodate neighbors and requests customers to keep noise levels down. Similarly, Vidit Aren, co-founder of nearby micro-restaurant Chuim 66, refitted their exhaust chimney and put up signage reminding customers they are in a residential neighborhood.
Despite resident protests, the demand for gaothan commercial spaces remains high due to lower rental costs compared to high streets. Real estate broker Shaan Shaikh noted that enquiries have multiplied, with clients willing to pay Rs 1.5 to 2 lakh for a 250-square-foot cafe rental. For some elderly homeowners facing high maintenance costs, these commercial offers provide a vital source of income.
Urban planners and architects are calling for formal regulations to manage this transition. Conservation architect David Cardoz suggested that low-scale commercial use can help preserve the gaothans without gutting them. Pankaj Joshi, principal director of Urban Centre Mumbai, urged the community, business owners, and civic officials to collaborate on soft bylaws, such as noise restrictions, to resolve the ongoing tensions.
