Mumbai Residents Protest Coastal Road Over Mangrove Concerns
Charkop, Mumbai – Approximately 100 residents and activists rallied at Samvidhan Chowk Friday evening, protesting the proposed Versova-Dahisar Coastal Road. Demonstrators fear the project will decimate vital mangrove ecosystems.
Key facts:
- The ₹20,000 crore project aims to reduce travel time to Mira-Bhayander.
- Tenders worth ₹1.9 crore were floated on March 6th for mangrove cutting.
- BMC estimates indicate 9,000 mangroves will be cut, with over 45,000 affected.
- Compensatory afforestation is planned in Bhayander and Chandrapur, raising concerns over localized ecological impact.
Protesters voiced concerns about increased pollution, prioritising private transport over public, and the long-term ecological impact on future generations.