Speak up on coastal road before it’s too late : Hindustan Times

Civic body has got only 20 responses to the detailed report on the project put up on its website.

EXPERTS MIGHT BE IN THE PROCESS OF ANALYSING THE REPORT. SO FAR, WE HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY CONCRETE SUGGESTIONS. MOST OF THE OBJECTIONS, TOO, ARE VAGUE.

SENIOR CIVIC OFFICIAL

MUMBAI: Even a week after putting up the report on the coastal road project on its website, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has received only 20 responses so far, of which most cannot be incorporated in the plan.

According to civic sources, a majority of responses elaborate on how the road could lead to flooding in the city as the sea won’t receive drained water, while some are on the impact of the road on mangroves and the sea. Civic officials expect the number to increase at least four times, once activists finish analysing the report.

After the seminars on the draft development plan 2034, the civic body had received quite a few objections to the alignment of the coastal road, said officials. Citizens had then pointed out that the four lanes for the coastal road on either side could create bottlenecks and the effect it may have on heritage properties. The issues have, however, not been raised this time.

“Fewer objections have been received, as studying the detailed report on the project takes time. Experts might be in the process of analysing the report. So far, we have not received any concrete suggestions. Most of the objections, too, are vague,” said a civic official, on condition of anonymity, as he is not authorised to speak to the media.

Acting on chief minister Devendra Fadnavis’ order, the report was published last Wednesday. Citizens have been given a month — till July 27 — to submit their suggestions and objections, after which hearings will be held.

“I am yet to submit my draft letter to the civic body and plan to do it soon. The coastal road will affect environment. We are in touch with the BMC and will put our objections and suggestions on record,” said environmentalist Rishi Agarwal.

Ajoy Mehta, municipal commissioner said, “All suggestions and objections will be thoroughly reviewed and important suggestions will be considered.”