The article discusses the construction of a coastal road in Mumbai, India, and its impact on local communities. The road is expected to be completed in phases, with the second phase connecting Versova to Bhayander, farther north.
However, the project has been criticized for several reasons:
1. Environmental concerns: The demolition of 45,000 mangrove trees for the project's construction will harm the fragile ecosystem and disrupt the natural barrier against tidal surges and erosion.
2. Loss of shoreline access: The road blocks the way to the ocean at various points, making it difficult for people to access the shoreline, which was a rare free pleasure enjoyed by all classes in Mumbai.
3. Displacement of communities: The construction process has already led to the demolition of homes and businesses in some areas, leaving residents without access to basic amenities like water, electricity, and sanitation.
4. Increased pollution: The construction process has increased air and water pollution, which is a significant concern for the health and well-being of local residents.
The article quotes several individuals who are affected by the project, including:
* Deepak Namaposhe, a fisherman who fears that his livelihood will be disrupted due to the destruction of traditional fishing sites and breeding grounds.
* Anil Gaitonde, a shopkeeper in Colaba, who is concerned about the loss of shoreline access and the impact on local businesses.
* Shah, an environmental activist, who is fighting against the project's demolition of mangrove trees and the disruption of the natural ecosystem.
The article suggests that the government and authorities responsible for the project should reconsider their plans and prioritize environmental concerns, community needs, and social justice over economic interests.
However, the project has been criticized for several reasons:
1. Environmental concerns: The demolition of 45,000 mangrove trees for the project's construction will harm the fragile ecosystem and disrupt the natural barrier against tidal surges and erosion.
2. Loss of shoreline access: The road blocks the way to the ocean at various points, making it difficult for people to access the shoreline, which was a rare free pleasure enjoyed by all classes in Mumbai.
3. Displacement of communities: The construction process has already led to the demolition of homes and businesses in some areas, leaving residents without access to basic amenities like water, electricity, and sanitation.
4. Increased pollution: The construction process has increased air and water pollution, which is a significant concern for the health and well-being of local residents.
The article quotes several individuals who are affected by the project, including:
* Deepak Namaposhe, a fisherman who fears that his livelihood will be disrupted due to the destruction of traditional fishing sites and breeding grounds.
* Anil Gaitonde, a shopkeeper in Colaba, who is concerned about the loss of shoreline access and the impact on local businesses.
* Shah, an environmental activist, who is fighting against the project's demolition of mangrove trees and the disruption of the natural ecosystem.
The article suggests that the government and authorities responsible for the project should reconsider their plans and prioritize environmental concerns, community needs, and social justice over economic interests.
I mean, those 45,000 mangrove trees are like a vital part of the ecosystem, and just to build some road, they're cutting them down?!? That's not even right. And what about all the people who live in those areas?! They're already dealing with the stress of losing their homes and businesses. And then you add air and water pollution into the mix?!? It's like, can't we find a way to make this road without hurting so many innocent people?! 
I mean, can you imagine not being able to enjoy a free day at the beach? It's like, what's the point of having a road if it blocks your access to the ocean? 
And 45,000 mangrove trees are just going down the drain (literally!)... I'm all for conservation, but come on! Can't we find a way to make this project work without harming the environment and local communities? It's like they say: "A road to prosperity is not worth the cost of a mangrove forest" 
. Governments need to put people and planet first instead of just chasing economic gains... or at least consider the fishermans' worries, I mean, who doesn't love a good catch? 
They're just a bunch of old trees that are taking up space in the way of progress. And those fishing sites? They'll find new ones, right? It's not like fish are going to disappear or anything... 
The real issue is those businesses in Colaba who are so worried about losing customers. Maybe they should just adapt instead of whining about it... 
about the coastal road in Mumbai they r destroying so many mangroves 
n then ppl r complaining bout the shoreline access 
i mean i get it but cmon 45k trees gone? 
& businesses 
n btw why do they hav to be so fast with this construction 
they cud have taken their time n did it rite? 
i need some solid sources on this project tho, what's the government's side of the story? 
and are they considering any alternatives to destruction?
. Let's hope the authorities listen to these community members and environmental activists before it's too late 
what's the point of a road if we just destroy our planet in the process? i mean come on, can't they just find another way to build it without killing all the nature around us? and poor deepak, his livelihood will be ruined because of this... i feel for him 
and anil's shop is going to suffer too... this is just so unfair 
we need more voices like shah speaking out against this nonsense, maybe then they'll listen 
who's gonna help him out? btw its like mumbai forgot how to have fun by the ocean. now its all about shopping malls and overpriced cafes 
mangrove trees gone 
and people losing their homes & livelihoods 
it's not just about the economy, it's about the lives of our brothers & sisters here 
deepak namaposhe's story 
anil gaitonde's concern is valid too 
colaba business will suffer for sure 
but what about our environment? 
we need to protect it 
not just talk about conservation 
go green, government! 
! I mean, 45k mangrove trees just getting demolished? That's like, a crime scene or something 
.
. And what's with all the phases? Are they trying to prolong the pain for everyone involved? The thought of people losing their homes and access to basic amenities is just 
... newsflash: it doesn't have to be a trade-off between economy and environment 