After focusing on the environmental degradation caused by the Coastal Road Project, Apna Mumbai Abhiyan, a coalition of 37 environmentalist NGOs and resident associations is now demanded the relocatio
After focusing on the environmental degradation caused by the Coastal Road Project, Apna Mumbai Abhiyan, a coalition of 37 environmentalist NGOs and resident associations is now demanded the relocation of Metro car shed project from Aarey Colony.
On the backdrop of Revised Draft Development Plan’s (RDDP) provision of land at Aarey Colony and Royal Palms, the members AMA opposed setting up of the depot in any part of Eco Sensitive Zone (ESA) of Aarey Colony, including Royal Palms.
Members of the NGOs also proposed a number of activities, which could transform the Aarey Colony as a major natural green hub focusing on recreational activities and conservation of environment. Opening up the debate, the AMA conservationists confirmed that as they are accused of opposing the infrastructure development, their core agenda is safeguarding the only available green lung of the city. Aarey Conservation Group, which is a part of the coalition confirmed that while it was against the recent consideration of Search Results Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRC) to build the car shed at Royal Palms as the route will pass through Aarey Colony, which won’t serve any purpose of shifting the venue. “The two sites, proposed by us at Kalina and Kanjurmarg, are ideal for the car shed. As the project requires a space of 25 hectares, Kalina is found to be suitable on all parameters. Sadly, there were no surveys conducted and, in spite of being aware of the protest of environmentalists, no dialogue ever took place between MMRCL and people to check the feasibility of the project,” said Priya Mishra from ACG.
