Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday raised concerns over alleged irregularities in mangrove replantation linked to the Versova–Bhayandar Coastal Road project, calling for an immediate stop to mangrove cutting in north Mumbai, PTI reported.
Speaking in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Thackeray demanded greater transparency in the compensatory afforestation process associated with the project. He urged the government to ensure proper verification of claims made regarding mangrove restoration.
Calling for stricter oversight, Thackeray proposed the formation of a joint committee of legislators to conduct on-site inspections. The committee, he said, should visit both the areas where mangroves are proposed to be removed and locations where authorities claim replantation has been carried out, PTI reported. According to him, such an exercise would help determine whether the compensatory measures are genuine and sufficient.
The former environment minister also alleged that officials from the Forest Department were presenting misleading information about mangrove plantations. He claimed that inaccurate data may have been submitted before the Bombay High Court, as well as to the state government and civil society organisations, regarding afforestation efforts.
Seeking accountability, Thackeray called for an independent inquiry commission to examine the alleged discrepancies. He argued that claims of replantation were being used to justify the proposed removal of nearly 45,000 mangroves for the project, PTI reported. Environmental groups have also raised doubts over the credibility of the data presented by authorities.
Emphasising the ecological importance of mangroves, Thackeray suggested exploring alternative solutions such as tunnelling or revising the project alignment to reduce environmental damage. He maintained that infrastructure development should not come at the expense of fragile coastal ecosystems.
He further highlighted the role of mangroves in preventing coastal erosion, supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance, urging the government to prioritise conservation.
The issue is likely to see further discussion, with growing calls for a comprehensive review of the project’s environmental impact and mitigation strategies.
Source: Mid-day
