Due to continuous land acquisition and environmental clearance obstacles, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has once again failed to start work on two crucial stormwater pumping stations: Mahul and Mogra.
Despite the Bombay High Court approving the Rs. 33 crore compensation for the disputed Mogra station land, and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani giving administrative clearance, the project remains stalled, awaiting the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) go-ahead. Meanwhile, the BMC continues to struggle to acquire saltpan land for the Mahul station, further delaying its execution.
Following the 2005 Mumbai flood, the Chitale Committee suggested eight flood mitigation initiatives, including both stations. Despite the completion of the Mogra tender in 2021, the acquisition process was hindered by private parties’ legal disputes over ownership. According to a senior civic official, construction will start immediately after receiving MoEF approval.
Similarly, land procurement for the Mahul pumping station has faced roadblocks despite negotiations with the Salt Commissionerate, which owns the required land. As per the Commissionerate’s policy, public sector projects can acquire land at 10% of its valuation, reducing the BMC’s expected cost from Rs. 118 crore to Rs. 14 crore. However, another occupant is demanding 25% compensation based on a Rs. 100 crore valuation, complicating the transaction. The matter remains under discussion.
To prevent floods, Mumbai’s stormwater pumping stations are essential, particularly during high tide when floodgates are closed to keep seawater out. Excess water from city sewers is pumped into the sea by these stations. Irla in Juhu (2010), Haji Ali, Cleveland, Lovegrove in Worli, Reay Road-Britannia, and Gajdharbandh near Khar Danda are among the six stations that have been put into service thus far. However, the city’s efforts to mitigate flooding continue to confront significant obstacles, as Mogra and Mahul remain in limbo.
Source: The Free Press Journal
