Shamik Elanza SantacruzVakola, Mumbai

Vakola is a prominent suburb situated in the western part of Mumbai. As it is adjacent to the Bandra Kurla Complex, one of Mumbai's primary business hubs, and the Mumbai International Airport, Vakola offers unparalleled connectivity and convenience to its residents. Vakola also benefits from its proximity to ample amenities, including local markets, shops, eateries, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, entertainment hubs, and nearly everything essential for a sought-after lifestyle. The area is further lined with a diverse array of housing options, ranging from modern high-rise apartments to quaint, traditional homes, catering to a wide demographic. Ultimately, the blend of its strategic location, diverse housing, and bustling street life makes Vakola a unique and desirable locality in the heart of Mumbai.

What’s Good v/s What Can Be Better?

Physical Infrastructure and Livability Index

Vakola is renowned for its superior physical infrastructure, characterised by well-maintained roads, efficient drainage systems, a reliable water supply, and consistent electricity. The area is also well-equipped with a variety of civic amenities, including schools, colleges, hospitals, banks, markets, malls, and parks. Moreover, Vakola boasts a high livability index, offering a comfortable and peaceful living environment with green surroundings and ample parking space. Its strategic location near major business centres and the airport further enhances its appeal. Ultimately, this remarkable combination of urban convenience and a comfortable lifestyle makes Vakola an appealing choice for both families and professionals alike.

Social Infrastructure- Restaurants

The following are some of the popular restaurants you can find in Vakola, Mumbai:

• Clara's Kitchen Vakola
• Mauli Restaurant
• Shekhar Family Restaurant
• Arpita Restaurant
• Mauli Restaurant

Banks/ Metro Stations/ Airport/ Bus Terminal/ Railway Stations/ Parks

Banks and ATMs 

• State Bank of India
• HDFC Bank
• ICICI Bank
• Axis Bank
• Bank of Baroda
• Canara Bank
• Bank Of India
• Kotak Mahindra Bank

Metros and Railway Stations 

• Versova Metro Station
• Azad Nagar Metro Station
• D.N Nagar Metro Station
• Santacruz railway station
• Khar Road Railway Station
• Khar Railway Station

Bus Terminals

• Phatak Technical School Bus Stop
• Vakola Pipe Line Bus Stop
• Vakola Police Station Bus Stop
• Vakola Bridge Bus Stop
• New Agripada Bus Stop

Airport

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai

Public Parks

• Madhukar Rao Sarpotdar Udyan
• Aanand Garden
• Biodiversity Park
• Joseph Bapista Gardens
• Lions Juhu Children's Municipal Park
• Muktananda Park
• Dinkar Patel Garden

Popular Roads in Vakola

Some of the popular roads in Vakola are as follows:

Nehru Road: This road connects Vakola to Santacruz East and Vile Parle East, and has many shops, restaurants, banks, and other amenities along its stretch. It also passes by the V N Desai Hospital and the Mumbai University campus.

Vakola Bridge: This road is an extension of Nehru Road that crosses over the Western Express Highway and connects Vakola to Kalina and Bandra Kurla Complex. It is a busy road with heavy traffic, especially during peak hours.

St. Anthony’s Road: This road runs parallel to the Western Express Highway and connects Vakola to Santacruz West and Khar West. It is a quieter road with many residential buildings, schools, churches, and temples.

Vakola Pipeline Road: This road runs along the Vakola Nalla, a drainage channel that flows through Vakola. It connects Vakola to Kurla West and Sion. It is a narrow road with many slums, factories, and warehouses on both sides.

Nearby Localities to Vakola

How do People Rate Vakola?

Vakola is generally well-regarded by its residents and visitors, earning positive ratings for several key aspects. The locality is praised for its excellent connectivity, with easy access to public transportation and major roadways, making commutes relatively hassle-free. The availability of diverse markets and quality healthcare facilities also receives high marks. Residents appreciate the mix of residential options and the convenience of having essential services and amenities close at hand. However, there are areas where Vakola could improve. Traffic congestion during peak hours and the associated noise pollution due to the proximity of busy roads are common concerns. Furthermore, while safety and cleanliness are rated positively, there is always room for enhancement in these areas to further increase the overall quality of life. Despite these challenges, the prevailing opinion about Vakola remains favourable, highlighting its strengths as a well-connected, resourceful, and lively suburb in Mumbai.

How Do I Visit Vakola?

Here are some ways to visit Vakola by different modes of transport:

By Road: Vakola is well-connected by road to other parts of Mumbai and nearby cities. You can use the Western Express Highway, the Eastern Express Highway, the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, or the Sion-Panvel Expressway to reach Vakola by car, taxi, or bus. 

By Train: Vakola is close to the Santacruz railway station, which is on the Western line of the Mumbai suburban railway network. You can take a local train from any station on the Western line to Santacruz, and then walk or take a rickshaw to Vakola. You can also take a long-distance train to Mumbai Central, Dadar, or Bandra Terminus, and then switch to a local train or a bus to reach Vakola.

By Air: Vakola is located approximately 3 km away from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, the main airport serving Mumbai. You can fly to this airport from any domestic or international destination and then take a taxi or a bus to reach Vakola.

Places to Visit in Vakola

Here are some of the popular places to visit in and around Vakola:

IASC Ground: This is a large open ground that hosts various sports and cultural events, such as cricket matches, football tournaments, and festivals. It is also a popular spot for jogging, cycling, and picnicking.

Madhukar Rao Sarpotdar Udyan: This is a well-maintained garden that has a children’s play area, a jogging track, a fountain, and a statue of Madhukar Rao Sarpotdar, a freedom fighter and politician.

Vakola Market: This is a bustling market that sells a variety of goods, such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, clothes, electronics, and household items. It is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine of Vakola. 

Locality Comparison

Vakola is comparable to some of the other localities in the western suburbs of Mumbai, such as Khar East, Vile Parle East, Santacruz East, Santacruz West, Kurla West, and Khar West. However, Vakola has some advantages over these localities, such as lower property rates, higher availability of flats, and better accessibility to the airport and BKC. Vakola also has a distinct identity and charm, as it reflects the diversity and culture of Mumbai. Moreover, the mix of residential options in Vakola, from modern apartments to traditional homes, caters to a broader range of preferences compared to more homogenous neighbourhoods. While areas like Bandra and Andheri also offer a mix of commercial and residential spaces, Vakola distinguishes itself with a unique blend of local culture and urban amenities. The suburb also balances its bustling streets with pockets of serene residential areas, offering a diverse living experience. Overall, Vakola's blend of accessibility, diversity, and local charm positions it as a unique and desirable location within Mumbai's mosaic of neighbourhoods.

Conclusion

Vakola emerges as a dynamic and appealing locality in Mumbai, characterised by its strategic location, diverse housing options, and vibrant street life. Its proximity to major business hubs and the airport makes it a hub of convenience and accessibility. However, the challenges of traffic congestion and noise pollution are areas that could benefit from improvement. Despite these issues, Vakola maintains a positive reputation, appreciated for its lively atmosphere and the convenience it offers. Its unique position as a blend of urban accessibility and local charm makes it an attractive option for both residents and investors, marking it as a notable locality in the bustling city of Mumbai.