Sites at Backbay, Dharavi and BKC have one problem or the other and present a challenging task for MMRDA
Mumbai : Even as the government-appointed committee contemplates on alternative locations to house the depot for Metro-III corridor, there are several drawbacks with the proposed sites. The committee is evaluating around 10 to 11 probable sites where the depot could be located. But unfortunately, all sites have major drawbacks that could either delay the project or escalate the project cost, senior MMRDA officials said.
Several environmental NGOs, activists and citizens have opposed the government’s decision to construct a 30-hectare depot in Aarey Colony, the city’s last remaining green cover. The contract to construct the depot was awarded but was opposed vehemently leading to the government appointing a committee to look at other possible alternatives.
The options before the seven-member committee are Backbay, Bandra-Kurla Complex, part of Mahalaxmi Race Course, a land parcel belonging to Mumbai Port Trust, Dharavi, Kanjurmarg and Kalina (Mumbai University land). “There are additional three to four locations which have been proposed by various activist groups and other people. We have taken them into consideration too. Our report will weigh the pros and cons of each of the options proposed and we’ll let the government decide,” said Metropolitan Commissioner, UPS Madan while refusing to share the additional locations.
According to sources, if a depot is built by reclaiming land at Backbay the project could face opposition from locals and also it was unlikely that it would get a clearance from the Union Environment Ministry. While, constructing a depot at Dharavi would involve major rehabilitation of over 10,000 families. “Land is available at BKC, but International Finance Centre is proposed to come there,” said an official on condition of anonymity.
He added that land available at Kalina and Mahalaxmi Race Course is around 13-14 hectare and hence doesn’t fit the requirement entirely. “The challenge with MbPT land is that it is scattered and it will require major relocation of warehouse and clearing encroachments. MbPT too is expecting huge cargo traffic in coming years and wants to use the land,” the official explained. The option to located depot at Kanjurmarg will escalate the project cost as it is far off. “The corridor will have to be extended by nearly 12 km which will lead to cost escalation,” he said. Sources say the contentious report is likely to be submitted after the Assembly session ends. “The report isn’t submitted yet. It will be finalised and submitted in this week. It has nothing to do with the ongoing session as we’re not obliged to table the report in the Assembly,” Madan said. The monsoon session is likely to end on July 31.
SWAPNIL RAWAL
