MUMBAI: The Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) has given the green light to the alignment of Metro Line 9, which traverses the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) from Bhayandar West to the proposed car depot at Dongri. This decision marks a significant step forward in enhancing the public transport infrastructure for the Mira-Bhayandar region.
Metro Line 9, extending from Dahisar to Mira Bhayandar, is an important component of Mumbai’s transportation expansion, connecting with Line 7, which links Andheri to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. The new line will stretch 13.581 km, with 11.386 km elevated and 2.195 km underground. It will feature 11 stations and a car depot at Dongri. The depot’s location was strategically shifted from its initial site in response to environmental concerns raised by local activists. In approving the project, the MCZMA mandated stringent environmental safeguards. For each mangrove tree affected by the construction, three new mangroves must be planted.
This requirement comes in response to the estimated loss of approximately 2.37 acres of mangrove habitat due to the metro’s development. The affected mangrove species include Avicennia marina, Avicennia alba, Salvadora species, among others, which are crucial to the local ecosystem. The MCZMA has also directed the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to obtain clearance from the Mangrove Protection Cell and the Forest Department. Additionally, the authority has instructed that construction activities should be conducted with minimal disruption to local wildlife, particularly flying animals and birds.
The MMRDA acknowledges the critical role of transportation in the Mira-Bhayandar area, citing the current strain on the existing suburban railway and road networks. Metro Line 9 is expected to alleviate this pressure by improving connectivity with the Western Express Highway, Western Railway, and existing metro lines, including Line 2A (Dahisar to D N Nagar) and Line 7 (Andheri East to Dahisar East). Residents of Mira Road have largely welcomed the new metro line, anticipating a more efficient and faster commuting option. The project promises to address long-standing transportation challenges in the area, significantly enhancing connectivity and reducing travel times.
