The second phase of Mumbai’s Coastal Road Project is facing growing environmental opposition as authorities announce plans to utilise 104 hectares of forest land for the Versova-Bhayandar link road.
This major infrastructure project, aimed at enhancing connectivity within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, has triggered debates over the sustainability of urban development in the city. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) recently issued a public notice detailing that 103.6554 hectares of forest land will be cleared to make way for the new road. The project involves relocating affected power lines and other utilities, a process that adds complexity to the already ambitious development. According to the notice, the project has secured Coastal Regulation Zone clearances from the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, ensuring compliance with environmental norms.
Officials have clarified that the project aligns with the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers Act, 2006, and the 2008 Amendment Rules. The public has been invited to submit objections by April 21 at the designated ward offices, providing an opportunity for citizens and environmental groups to voice their concerns. Despite these assurances, environmental activists have criticised the project, arguing that the large-scale clearing of green cover poses serious ecological threats. They contend that Mumbai’s deteriorating air quality and rising temperatures are not coincidental but are consequences of aggressive urban development that prioritises infrastructure over environmental health.
The Coastal Road Project Phase 2, with an estimated budget of ₹20,648 crore, is projected to be completed by 2029. It aims to significantly reduce traffic congestion and improve connectivity between Mumbai’s island city, its suburbs, and the broader metropolitan region. However, the environmental cost of such projects is a growing concern. The loss of forest land not only affects biodiversity but also reduces the city’s capacity to combat the urban heat island effect and manage air quality. Experts in environmental science and urban planning stress the need for sustainable construction practices, green infrastructure, and comprehensive environmental impact assessments to mitigate such risks. Recently, the BMC also issued a notice to revise the reservation for 60 land parcels between Goregaon and Dahisar, indicating the extent of land modifications required for the project. While these changes are seen as necessary for road development, they raise questions about the long-term environmental sustainability of the project and the effectiveness of public consultations.
Despite the controversy, the BMC remains firm on its position, asserting that the project is essential for Mumbai’s growth and will deliver substantial economic benefits. Officials argue that all required environmental clearances have been obtained, and the project’s design incorporates measures to minimise ecological disruption. However, environmental groups continue to advocate for alternative approaches, including the adoption of eco-friendly construction techniques, the implementation of compensatory afforestation programmes, and stricter environmental oversight to ensure that development does not come at the cost of the city’s green heritage.
As Mumbai navigates the challenges of urbanisation and climate change, the Coastal Road Project Phase 2 highlights the complex interplay between development and environmental stewardship. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for balanced urban planning that respects ecological boundaries while fostering sustainable growth.
Mumbai Coastal Road Phase 2 Uses 104 Hectares Green Cover
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