A recent survey conducted by the local Tehsildar has raised concerns over the potential flood risks associated with the ongoing Thane Coastal Road project between Balkum and Gaimukh. The report warns that construction activity, combined with debris dumping and unchecked development along the creek belt, has disrupted natural drainage systems, increasing the likelihood of waterlogging and flash floods during the monsoon.
The coastal road project, being implemented by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority through Navayuga Engineering Co. Ltd., is intended to improve connectivity and ease traffic congestion in Thane. However, the survey found that construction works near Kolshet Creek, particularly along the alignment running parallel to a major BMC water pipeline, have significantly narrowed or obstructed natural channels that carry rainwater from surrounding hills into the creek.
According to the findings, a key drainage channel serving the Balkum and Kolshet areas has been reduced from nearly 50 feet in width to around 15–20 feet because of construction debris and temporary access roads created for piling operations.
The report also highlighted large-scale dumping of soil, debris and construction waste in creek buffer zones and mangrove areas. Authorities noted that temporary service roads have enabled private landowners, farmers and developers to transport and dispose of material in environmentally sensitive locations.
In addition, the survey pointed to increasing development activity along the Balkum–Kolshet creek stretch. Around 50 to 55 residential and commercial projects have reportedly received approvals, with some developers constructing roads over natural drainage routes, further restricting water flow.
The Tehsildar’s report cautioned that without immediate desilting and restoration measures, monsoon runoff may not have an adequate outlet. Areas such as Kharegaon, Balkum and Kolshet villages, along with residential developments including Lodha Amara, Mhatreai Nagar, Kolshet Village and Dosti West County, have been identified as vulnerable locations.
Officials have warned that intense rainfall could lead to creek water and stormwater entering these neighbourhoods, posing risks to residents, infrastructure and property if corrective action is not undertaken before the peak monsoon period.
Source: The Free Press Journal
