India, Feb. 11 -- Bandra's iconic seafront promenade at Carter Road could soon turn into a corridor of flashing LED lights, driving motorists to distraction. Outraged residents say it will also destroy the very character of this 1.2-km stretch, a cherished public space where people walk, jog, linger and gather for community activities.

Former corporator Asif Zakaria has urged the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to immediately halt the installation of 35 LED hoardings in what he calls the "commercialisation" of a key public space.

Zakaria has also questioned the transparency in the permissions process, saying that approvals appear to have been given without public consultation, particularly during the model code of conduct ahead...