Thane Coastal Road work: Congress alleges damage to mangroves, flags ‘flood risk’

Thane: Alleging large-scale land reclamation and displacement of mangroves and natural water channels in the Balkum-Thane creek area to facilitate construction of the Coastal Road extension project, Congress’s Thane unit warned of potential flooding during the monsoon.In a statement, it called for an independent environmental assessment to evaluate the project’s impact on mangroves, biodiversity and natural watercourses. “Reclamation work has been undertaken at several locations adjoining creeks, wetlands and mangrove belts as part of the project which will potentially obstruct the natural flow of rainwater towards the creek during the monsoon. Mangroves are not mere trees but are the coastline’s natural defence system and any damage to them could lead to flooding and ecological imbalance,” said Rahul Pingale, the unit president.The party also questioned the alleged silence of regulatory and administrative authorities, including the district administration, Thane Municipal Corporation, Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority and the state mangrove cell.“We have sought a high-level inquiry and independent environmental assessment to evaluate the impact of the project on mangroves, biodiversity and natural watercourses. We have complained to the district collector, the municipal commissioner and the mangrove cell regarding the ongoing reclamation and hope for timely action,” said Pingale.The Thane Coastal Road linking Gaimukh to Kharegaon is considered as a vital link bypassing the congested Ghodbunder highway that will drive away all outbound traffic from Thane city limits, easing congestion and pollution.