Mumbai’s first elevated nature trail, the Malabar Hill Walkway, opened to much fanfare this Sunday. Inspired by Singapore’s tree-top walkways, it promises a unique experience—walking amidst lush greenery with a panoramic city view. However, for all its eco-friendly appeal, one glaring issue stands out: why must children pay to access nature?

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has set an entry fee of ₹25 for Indian citizens and ₹100 for foreigners, with one-hour slots to manage footfall. While seemingly nominal, this fee raises a fundamental question—should public spaces, especially those meant to foster a love for nature, come at a price? India is one of the youngest nations in the world, yet our urban planning often ignores its most significant demographic. Public spaces intended to encourage environmental appreciation should be freely accessible, especially to children, fostering their........

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