MUMBAI: Citizens groups, environmental activists, and local residents will gather on Sunday, May 17, to form a human chain in Bandra West, protesting what they claim is the destruction of over 45,000 mangroves for the Mumbai Coastal Road project.
Impact on Mangroves
Approximately 60,000 mangroves fall within the influence zone of the Mumbai Coastal Road (North) project, of which around 45,000 are being impacted. Among these, about 9,000 mangroves will be permanently cut. The infrastructure project, estimated to cost the corporation over Rs 20,000 crores, will pass through an alignment area of 103 hectares.
Protest Details
The protest will be held at the Amphitheatre, Carter Road, Bandra West, between 5 pm and 6 pm. The initiative, titled "Mumbai Deserves Better – Save Mangroves, Save Mumbai," seeks to highlight concerns over large-scale ecological impact and demand greater transparency and accountability in coastal development works.
Role of Mangroves
Activists emphasized that mangroves play a crucial role in protecting Mumbai from flooding, supporting marine biodiversity, absorbing carbon emissions, and sustaining traditional fishing communities. They warned that any large-scale loss of mangrove cover could have long-term environmental consequences for the city.
About the Author
Richa Pinto is a special correspondent with The Times of India, covering urban governance and climate change issues. With over a decade of experience in field reporting, she has written extensively on various civic issues affecting Mumbaikars. She graduated in journalism from the prestigious Mumbai-based St Xavier's College and later pursued a three-year Law degree (L.L.B.) with the University of Mumbai. She regularly tweets about all things that matter to Mumbai.
