Local fishermen’s associations joined environmentalists in protesting the Versova-Dahisar Link Road (VDLR) project’s possible ecological and socioeconomic effects, which has increased concerns over the project. Fishermen from places like Gorai, Charkop, Marve, and Malvani expressed concerns that the project may ruin their customs and drive many of them out of business.
In a recent meeting held at Charkop Sector 8, Kandivali West—chaired by local MLA Sanjay Upadhyay and attended by BMC bridge department officials and residents—community representatives submitted over 200 objections and suggestions opposing the proposed coastal road alignment. “Traditional fishing in this region will be entirely wiped out, leading to extreme hardships and starvation within our community,” warned several fishing groups.
Darshan Keni of the Charkop Koli Yuva Sansthan noted that Coastal Road officials did meet with locals at Koliwada and Gaothan to gather feedback. However, environmentalists remain unconvinced. “The destruction of mangroves will endanger the environment and cause irreversible damage to the area,” said Mili Shetty, a Charkop-based environmental activist.
The VDLR, a 20-kilometre corridor costing Rs 16,621 crore, will link Versova to Dahisar, with a 5.6 km elevated stretch planned between Dahisar and Bhayandar. To make way for the project, the BMC has proposed diverting 104 hectares of forest land—a move that may impact nearly 60,000 mangroves, with 9,000 set for removal, according to civic sources.
MLA Upadhyay acknowledged the community’s concerns and said authorities are exploring solutions. “We’ve also met with the MHADA Vice President to discuss parking solutions for locals. This project aims to develop Charkop and its residents, not cause them harm,” he asserted.
The civic body has invited objections and feedback from the public until April 21, particularly regarding forest land diversion approvals currently in process.
Source: The Free Press Journal
