The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) has asked the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to examine objections raised by local Koli fisherfolk before proceeding further with the proposed Kopri–Patni cable-stayed bridge over Thane Creek.
The direction follows formal representations from fishermen concerned that the bridge alignment could interfere with traditional fishing routes, coastal access points and community spaces that have supported the Koli community for generations.
The proposed infrastructure is located near several environmentally sensitive areas, including the Thane Creek Ramsar site, Chendani Bunder, flamingo habitats and mangrove ecosystems. The project has therefore raised concerns not only about livelihood impacts but also about potential ecological consequences.
The MMB had earlier issued conditional clearance for the bridge following an MMRDA request. The approval stipulated a horizontal clearance of 100 metres and a vertical clearance of 10 metres. However, subsequent complaints from local fishermen have prompted the maritime authority to seek a detailed review of their concerns before further implementation.
Anand Prabhakar Koli, Thane District President of the Akhil Bharatiya Koli Samaj and a resident of Chendani Koliwada, submitted objections to the Minister of Fisheries and Ports. He said the proposed project could affect fishing access and spaces used by the community for cultural and religious activities.
“The local community must be taken into confidence before implementing any major infrastructure project,” stated Anand Prabhakar Koli, Thane District President of the Akhil Bharatiya Koli Samaj. “If developmental initiatives like coastal roads, ring roads, internal ring metros, creek bridges, and waterfronts infringe upon traditional spaces, local participation and the absolute protection of our rights must be ensured.”
The coastal areas also host traditional events such as Narali Purnima, the Koli Festival and religious immersions.
Environmental concerns remain significant, with experts calling for scientific assessment of excavation, construction activity, material movement and future traffic impacts on the creek.
The MMRDA will now have to address the fishermen’s objections and clarify how the bridge design may affect their livelihoods, access and surrounding ecological areas.
Source: The Free Press Journal
