Why are activists concerned about the Versova-Dahisar coastal road in Mumbai?

Activists are concerned that the proposed coastal road will lead to the felling of nearly 45,675 mangroves, which are vital for Mumbai's coastal protection against flooding and erosion.

How are citizens protesting the Mumbai coastal road project?

Citizens are mobilizing to oppose the project, calling it 'car-centric development,' and plan to submit around 1,000 objections to the state government.

Home / Environment / Mumbai Mangroves Threatened by Coastal Road Project

Mumbai Mangroves Threatened by Coastal Road Project

Q: What action has the Union ministry taken regarding the Mumbai coastal road project?

The Union ministry of environment has requested an action taken report from the Maharashtra State Wetland Authority about the mangrove destruction concerns.

5 Jan

•

Summary

Union ministry seeks report on coastal road's mangrove impact.
Nearly 45,675 mangroves threatened by Versova-Dahisar road.
Activists demand halt to car-centric development.

Mumbai Mangroves Threatened by Coastal Road Project

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has intervened regarding the proposed Versova-Dahisar coastal road in Mumbai. On January 2, 2026, the ministry requested an action taken report from the Maharashtra State Wetland Authority concerning a complaint about the potential destruction of approximately 45,675 mangroves. This action follows concerns raised by activist Bansari Kothari about the project's environmental impact.

Kothari's complaint emphasizes that mangroves are a vital natural barrier against flooding, coastal erosion, and storm surges. She argues that removing them would increase Mumbai's vulnerability and that compensatory plantations elsewhere would not mitigate the immediate local risks. The complaint highlights the mangroves' essential role in coastal protection, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration.