MMRC calls on Uddhav Thackeray over Metro 3

After Shiv Sena took a tough stand regarding the Metro 3 line that passes through Marathi-dominated Girgaum area, the MMRDA officials met party chief Uddhav Thackeray to convince him and seek his support for the project. They also assured him that the people would not be displaced anywhere else and rehabilitated in the vicinity itself.

Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) managing director Ashwini Bhide met Mr Thackeray on Saturday and explained to him the detailed plan of the Metro 3 line. Ms Bhide said she had clarified to Mr Thackeray in the meeting that the residents of Girgaum area would be relocated in the nearby areas. “I have communicated to him that we will not be relocating the residents to Mankhurd or any other far off suburbs as feared. Mr Thackeray has understood the issue and has said that his party will support us. He has asked us to keep him in the loop which we will,” she said.

According to the proposed plan, 28 buildings and 777 families will be displaced between Girgaum and Kalbadevi stations on the Metro 3 line. The MMRC has assured them that they would be given bigger houses as compensation in the same locality.

Ms Bhide said that they will ensure that the alignment of the track would be according to the buildings that are likely to get redeveloped, “Some of the buildings that are already on the way of re-development will be might see work start along with the Metro 3 work. We will ensure that our alignment will include these new plans so that the small spaces for Metro, as well as their right area are both balanced,” she added.

Mr Thackeray is of the opinion that the work of Metro 3 should be allowed only after 100 per cent rehabilitation of the affected people is ensured. “Uddhavji wants to ensure that people are given houses within 500 metres and are satisfied with their rehabilitation. If not then we will not allow Girgaum and Kalbadevi stations to be built,” a Sena leader