Glory to Garbage: Last of Navy's Sea Harrier Fighter Jets at Bandstand now rests amid litter

Iconic landmarks define a city’s soul, and Bandstand's Sea Harrier Jet, perched near Habib's Ebrahim Manzil, is a prime example. This decommissioned fighter plane, standing tall against the Arabian Sea, is a testament to the aircraft’s storied past in defending our maritime borders.

Yet, its former glory is now marred by neglect. It’s time to restore this emblem of Bandra to its rightful splendour before it’s too late—and here’s why!

Displayed in a dramatic, suspended position as if taking off, this fighter jet with no grills or barriers, is a familiar sight to many strolling around Bandstand.

Built by the British Aerospace, India was the second country to fly the Sea Harrier when it was inducted in 1983. It was famous for its Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing/Vertical Take-Off and Landing (STOVL/VTOL) characteristic, meant exclusively for highly-skilled pilots.

Weighing 4.5 tonnes, this jet was a part of the INAS 300 squadron popularly known as “White Tigers.” It was operated from the deck of INS Viraat for the last time on March 6, 2016.

It was commissioned into the Indian Navy on May 12, 1987 and decommissioned in March 2017 after 30 years of service, the oldest aircraft carrier in active service worldwide. On May 11, 2016, a ceremony was held at INS Hansa, Dabolim, Goa to commemorate the phasing out of Sea Harriers from INAS 300.

On 14 March 2020, Indian Navy officers installed this iconic aircraft in Bandra, symbolising the Navy's unwavering devotion and commitment to our maritime security. Designed by Rinka D’Monte, the surrounding pathway and seating were intended to enhance the jet’s prominence.

Despite its significant potential to attract both tourists and locals, the Sea Harrier Jet resting opposite Bandra Bandstand, has unfortunately received minimal attention from both. This iconic landmark, is a crucial chapter of India’s maritime heritage, worthy of everyone's attention.

Yet, despite its emotional value, the memorial space remains largely neglected. The pathway and seating designed by Rinka D’Monte to enhance the installation’s appeal are now marred by litter. It is high time for both locals and the BMC to step up and give this significant landmark the care it truly deserves.