Mumbai: MNS chief Raj Thackeray on Monday opposed the Metro-III line that will pass through Aarey Colony near here, alleging that it was a deliberate attempt by politicians to grab open spaces.
"I am not against the development, but I can see that politicians are hand in gloves with builders on the issue. I have been raising the issue of Aarey Colony for the last five years. The government is eyeing the Aarey land and therefore has proposed the Metro car-shed," Thackeray said.
He was speaking to reporters after visiting the Aarey Colony.
Criticising the BJP government for its proposal of the Metro-III project, Thackeray said, "The government is taking decisions without even consulting the people. I doubt if the government has really changed. Has the BJP come to power to complete the project? The chief minister is like a robot. He listens to the orders given by the leadership in Delhi."
Thackeray lashed out at the government for declaring that there were no inhabitants in the Aarey Colony forest area.
"A letter sent to Japanese company to seek loan by he government mentioned that there are no inhabitants in the forest," he said showing a copy of the letter.
Speaking about the alternative land for the project, Thackeray said there were other open spaces like Kalina and Haji Ali also.
"Why is the Bombay Port Trust (BPT) land not given to the metro depot? I will not allow any open spaces to be sold," he said.
A few days back, MNS workers had ransacked metro office at Aarey Colony. His partymen, led by his wife Sharmila had also held a protest at the site.
Shiv Sena has already extended support to saving Aarey Milk Colony and opposed the metro project.
