The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has made a significant concession in the construction of the Goregaon-Mulund Link Road (GMLR) twin tunnels, altering their alignment to safeguard the tribal hamlet of Habalepada. While this decision is a victory for the local community, it has come at a substantial cost of Rs 250 crore, adding to the project’s overall budget.
The original tunnel route posed a threat to the homes and livelihoods of Habalepada’s residents, prompting a concerted effort by local activists and tribal leaders to protect their rights. Through protests, legal challenges, and advocacy, they successfully convinced the BMC to modify the project’s design. The realignment of the tunnels will require deeper excavation, necessitating the use of a longer tunnel boring machine (TBM). This technical adjustment has contributed to the increased cost of the project, which is now estimated to reach Rs 6,501 crore.
Despite the financial implications, the BMC’s decision to prioritize the preservation of Habalepada sets a positive precedent for future infrastructure projects in Mumbai. It demonstrates that environmental concerns and the rights of indigenous communities can be considered and addressed during the planning and implementation stages. As the GMLR project moves forward, it is crucial that the BMC continue to engage with local stakeholders and ensure that the construction process is carried out in a manner that minimizes environmental impacts and respects the rights of all affected communities. By doing so, the BMC can demonstrate its commitment to sustainable and equitable development.
