Home / Environment / Palghar Forests Face Destruction for Port Project
Palghar Forests Face Destruction for Port Project
14 Aug
Summary
- 66.63 hectares of forest land in Palghar to be diverted for mining.
- Project faces strong opposition from villagers and environmental activists.
- Concerns raised about destruction of trees, ponds, wells, and borewells.
In Palghar, the Vadhvan Port project is poised to cause substantial environmental damage by diverting 66.63 hectares of forest land for mining purposes. This land, including 2.53 hectares in the eco-sensitive Dahanu taluka, is home to approximately 25,000 trees. The Palghar district administration is processing the proposal, which has already faced strong public opposition during hearings held on August 2.
Activists and locals are outraged, citing that environmental clearances were allegedly granted under false pretenses, claiming no impact on forests. The Dahanu taluka, protected by forest laws and Supreme Court rulings, faces a critical threat. Further environmental concerns arise from related infrastructure, such as a highway that could lead to the felling of over 72,790 trees and impact water sources like the Upper Vaitarna dam.
