The Bombay High Court has granted approval for the Western Railway (WR) to fell 2,652 mangroves to facilitate the construction of two new railway lines between Borivali and Virar stations. The decision comes as part of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP) III-A, which aims to enhance railway infrastructure at an estimated cost of Rs. 2,184 crore.

The court's decision, issued last week, allows WR to proceed with the felling of 2,612 mangroves. This project has already received in-principle approval from a regional empowered committee and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEFCC). However, the MOEFCC has imposed over 20 conditions that WR must adhere to during the construction process to mitigate environmental impact.

The new 26-kilometer railway lines are expected to significantly increase train frequency, providing better connectivity beyond the western suburbs of Mumbai. The court, in its ruling, emphasized the public interest and ecological benefits of the project, highlighting that it will help reduce emissions, alleviate traffic congestion, and conserve fuel.

To address the environmental concerns associated with the cutting of mangroves, the court has mandated that WR file an undertaking to complete the plantation and maintenance of 7,823 mangroves near the areas where the mangroves will be cut. This compensatory measure will involve a cost of Rs. 15 lakh, in addition to the mandatory afforestation requirements.

The WR has been in discussions with the Additional Chief Principal Conservator of Forests (Mangroves) to identify suitable land for this plantation effort. This compensatory planting is part of a broader strategy to balance the environmental impact of the construction with measures aimed at preserving and enhancing local ecosystems.

The Bombay High Court's decision underscores the critical role of the suburban railway system in Mumbai, which spans 376 kilometers and serves approximately 8 million commuters daily. The court's judgement takes into account the significant benefits of the expanded railway network, which will be operated by 284 rakes of 12-car and 15-car configurations, facilitating around 3,000 train services each day.

Any removal of mangroves in Mumbai requires high court approval, in compliance with the landmark judgement in the case of Bombay Environment Action Group v. State of Maharashtra.