July 25, 2025: As construction on the Versova-Bandra Sea Link (VBSL) progresses, the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has issued a public notice inviting applications for compensation from fisherfolk whose livelihoods are likely to be disrupted by the project. Fishing activity across six coastal villages is expected to be impacted.
The MSRDC has set September 30, 2025 as the deadline for affected fisherfolk to submit compensation applications. This follows a Government Resolution issued in March 2023 by the Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries. Applications can be submitted to the MSRDC’s project office near Lilavati Hospital in Bandra (West).
A socio-economic survey conducted by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) identified 1,637 individuals within the project’s “zone of influence.” Of these, 864 are residents of Khar Danda, with others located in smaller villages such as Chimbai, Carter Road, Juhu Koliwada, Mora Gaon, and Kadeshwari Mandir.
Bhimshen Pandurang Khopte, a fisherman from Khar Danda, voiced concerns over the Sea Link’s impact on fish breeding and near-shore marine life. “We are not against development but demand fair compensation for all fishing families, including vendors and labourers,” he said, urging authorities to base payments on labour laws and earnings. He also called for long-term policy support to safeguard coastal livelihoods.
U. Patil, from the National Fish Workers Forum, emphasised that while the community welcomes progress, it must not come at the cost of their survival. Meetings with the Chief Minister and Fisheries Minister are planned.
The project cost has escalated from Rs 11,332 crore in 2018 to Rs 18,120 crore, partly due to relocation of the casting yard and additional design work. Once completed, the Sea Link is expected to reduce travel time between Bandra and Versova to under 15 minutes and ease congestion across key western corridors.
Source: Mid-day
