Several reports cite a number of city streets undergoing a facelift. There is beautification planned for a Cuffe Parade road, deep cleaning is going on in several spots and pedestrian-only initiatives are being looked at, so that the city gets a charming, old-world vibe. We have several efforts ongoing all designed to beautify Mumbai, make it international, spruce it up or whatever.

There will always be debates about these with some slamming the aestheticism, others claiming that the intent is good and yet others saying that holistic vision and long-term planning are essential to make all this work. While differences are always there, we must not forget certain basics in our zeal to give the city a makeover in whatever mode possible.