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BMC highlights multiple approvals needed for Coastal Road North project amid mangrove concerns

#Law & Policy#Infrastructure#India#Maharashtra#Mumbai City
Mumbai News Desk | Last Updated : 11th Mar, 2026
Synopsis

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani addressed concerns regarding the Coastal Road (North) project, noting that decisions involve multiple statutory approvals and cannot be made by a single authority. The project has faced criticism from citizen groups over its impact on nearly 45,000 mangroves. The Bombay High Court continues to monitor compliance, especially compensatory afforestation measures. At the International Arboriculture Conference, experts emphasized integrating urban development with ecological preservation, while officials outlined plans for tree care initiatives, modern arboriculture practices, and citizen engagement in protecting urban greenery.

BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani clarified that the Mumbai Coastal Road (North) project involves complex statutory processes and multiple agency approvals before any decision is finalized. His remarks came after citizen groups raised concerns about potential damage to approximately 45,000 mangroves along the planned route. He emphasized that large infrastructure projects cannot proceed based on a single authority's decision and require input from several regulatory bodies and judicial oversight.


Gagrani noted that all necessary permissions from concerned authorities have been obtained, and the Bombay High Court continues to monitor the project closely, particularly in relation to compensatory afforestation measures undertaken by the civic body. These measures are part of efforts to offset environmental impacts and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

The statements were made during the second International Arboriculture Conference in Mumbai, organised by Nanaji Deshmukh Pratishthan and the Amenity Tree Care Association. The event gathered arborists, tree-care professionals, researchers, educators, and environmental advocates from across India and abroad to discuss sustainable urban planning and the role of trees in improving city landscapes.

Vaibhav Raje, director of the Amenity Tree Care Association, highlighted the importance of arborists guiding municipal staff in tree preservation and well-being. Sanjay Pandey, chairman of Nanaji Deshmukh Pratishthan, emphasized balancing urban development with environmental conservation for the greater public good.

Mumbai's Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar outlined initiatives under modern arboriculture, including the establishment of tree clinics, allocation of funds and policies for municipal trees, and programs celebrating tree literature and festivals. He noted that pollution challenges are common in cities like Mumbai and Delhi, making it essential to find environment-based solutions through collaborative efforts.

Architect Alan Abraham delivered the keynote on urban public spaces, explaining how architectural planning and ecological considerations can work together effectively. The conference highlighted the need for integrated approaches where citizen participation, policy support, and professional guidance ensure that urban growth coexists with ecological preservation.

The Coastal Road North project, which is part of Mumbai's broader infrastructure expansion, continues to face scrutiny from environmental groups, with legal and civic forums ensuring that development aligns with ecological and regulatory standards. The conference underscored that sustainable city planning requires collaboration between government bodies, experts, and citizens to protect natural assets while enabling urban development.

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