'Coastal road could sink fishing villages' in mumbai ~ LAWOK LEPAS

'Coastal road could sink fishing villages' in mumbai

MUMBAI: The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation's (MSRDC) plan for a coastal road on the seaward side of the Bandra-Versova stretch could lead to the decimation of five prominent fishing villages that supply seafood to the city and help fisher folk make a livelihood.

The MSRDC is considering a coastal road, including a small sea-link , over the stretch to decongest traffic and reduce the burden on existing roads. However, important old villages, like Chuim in Bandra, Khar Danda , Juhu Koliwada, Juhu Moragaon and Versova village, whose residents are predominantly fisherfolk, will be badly affected.

A presentation was sent to Union environment minister Jairam Ramesh on Friday, during his visit to Mumbai, on the hazards a coastal road posed to fisher folk as well as mangroves. "Kolis won't allow a coastal road and will strongly oppose it. We won't know where to park our trawlers and our livelihood will be affected. Even from the ecological point of view, the marine life will be affected," said Narendra Gavde, a fisherman from Juhu Koliwada.

Residents said the MSRDC should explore the option of building an elevated road from Bandra over land, which could go up to Santa Cruz airport , where there's a 3-km vacant stretch. The road could then proceed to Versova.

Rajesh Mangela, a fisherman from Juhu Moragaon, said it is still unclear if the MSRDC wants a coastal road on stilts or by reclamation. The proposed coastal road would start at Land's End in Bandra (West) and end at Versova beach. Two major promenades, at Carter Road and Bandstand, could also get affected.

"This would be like another Marine Drive, where it would block access to the sea. You can build roads and bridges, but you can't create a beach. Lush mangroves will perish without fresh tidal water if the road comes up," said Hansel D'Souza , president, Juhu Citizens' Welfare Gorup.

Daryl D'Monte , president, Bandra West Residents' Association , said any construction should have minimal interference with the coastline's ecology. "Basically, we are against any destruction of the actual promenade. This is one of the most precious assets that Mumbai has and we shouldn't be giving it to car owners, who are a minority," said D'Monte .