Mumbai’s ambitious Goregaon Mulund Link Road (GMLR) project, designed to alleviate the city’s chronic traffic congestion, is set to have a significant environmental impact. The project’s third phase, which involves the construction of twin tunnels, will necessitate the removal or transplantation of over 1,500 trees.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has identified 513 trees for removal and 581 for transplantation, primarily in the Aarey Colony area. While the BMC has assured that replacement planting will be undertaken, environmental activists and concerned citizens have raised concerns about the irreversible loss of mature trees and the potential ecological consequences. Aarey Colony, a green lung of Mumbai, is home to diverse flora and fauna. The loss of trees in this area could disrupt the delicate ecological balance and impact the city’s biodiversity. The project’s proponents argue that the GMLR is a critical infrastructure project that will benefit millions of commuters. However, they must balance the need for development with environmental sustainability.
The twin tunnels, which will be among the widest in the country, are expected to significantly reduce travel time between Goregaon and Mulund. The Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) for this project is scheduled to arrive from China in March 2025. As the project progresses, it is crucial to ensure that environmental mitigation measures are implemented effectively. Transparent and accountable decision-making is essential to minimize the project’s ecological footprint. The BMC must strive to balance the needs of urban development with the preservation of green spaces and natural habitats.
