BJP set to flex muscles on allotment of spaces for Metro

Despite fierce opposition from its alliance partner Shiv Sena, the BJP is all set to flex its muscles on the proposal for allotment of 17 spaces for the Mumbai Metro-III project. The party is determined on passing the proposal, saying it would benefit the city.

According to civic sources, the proposal to hand over 7,796 square metres of land spread across 17 different city locations on a permanent basis for the Metro-III project will be tabled in the civic general body meeting next week. While the BMC has already turned down the proposal once, it will again be tabled in the House through the state urban development department, making it more difficult for the Sena to oppose it.

The Sena is supported by the MNS in its attempt to thwart BJP’s plans to allot 17 city spaces for the Metro-III project. Things would not so easy for the BJP in the civic house, as the Sena-MNS enjoy an upper hand with their superior strength. The proposal, if rejected, will be a big blow for the BJP, which is keen on expediting the Metro project.

The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited, which is implementing the project, has demanded 17 plots from the BMC for building the Colaba-Bandra-Seepz Metro-III line, which has 27 stations. Sena has again vowed to oppose the proposal tooth and nail. “The Metro-III project would not only affect the Hutatma memorial, but also render 700 families in Girgaum homeless. We will continue to oppose the proposal,” said senior Sena leader and civic standing committee chairman Shailesh Phanse.

The BJP has said that it would try to placate the Sena for the smooth passage of the proposal. “The Metro-III is important for the development of the city. Hence we would speak to the Sena leaders to allay fears,” said BMC party group leader Manoj Kotak.