New Delhi: The proposed second line of
metro connecting Charkop to Mankhurd via Bandra in Greater
Mumbai has hit a roadblock with a `green panel` citing threat
to the fragile mangroves due to the car depots meant for its
maintenance.
To be constructed by Mumbai Metropolitan Regional
Development Authority (MMRDA), the proposed 32-km metro rail
with 27 elevated stations en route will be the longest metro
corridor on public-private partnership.
Two maintenance depots at Charkop and Mankhurd (in an
area of 19.69 hectares and 24 hectares respectively) have been
proposed at the cost of Rs 1,532 crore in Greater Mumbai.
However, recommending to "defer" the project, an Expert
Appraisal Committee (EAC) of the Environment Ministry in a
recent meeting has asked the Authority to first get a nod from
the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA)
under the CRZ notification.
Seeking a nod, the MRMDA had pleaded that the project
was of public importance and would cater footfall of 12.75
lakhs, 18.77 lakhs and 22.16 lakhs in the years 2011, 2021 and
2031.
The project proponent also pointed out that all the
constructions falling in the CRZ-I were proposed on stilt
level to avoid disturbance to mangroves in the area and that
there was no other site available.
However, the EAC took note that the MCZMA last year had
identified the project`s "proposed activities are in CRZ-I and
not permissible as per CRZ, 1991," and that its earlier
reference were not provided as a clear recommendation.
"While the project proponent have presented some notable
changes in the project plans as viewed from the previous
position and partially in accordance with stipulations by the
EAC earlier.
"However, the requirements under the CRZ Notifications
are still not met," sources said, adding, moreover there is a
ban on the destruction of mangroves as per the orders of the
High Court of Bombay.
It also expressed concern that a large number of piers to
be constructed for the proposed elevated corridor for the
metro would overshadow the entire area at the cost of
mangroves.
Asking it to seek permission of the Bombay High Court
in respect of the activities in mangrove area, besides from
MCZMA, the EAC has also sought a proposal for compensatory
mangrove plantation.
PTI
