ANALYSIS OF COASTAL ROAD PROJECT: - THE MYTHS OF MANGROVES DELIBERATION ON PROS AND CONS

DOI: https://doie.org/10.65985/APER.2026722159

Authors:

Krishna. C. Birmole, Dr. Christina Shiju

Keywords:

Coastal Road, Congestion, Environmental Degradation, Mangrove loss, Financial & Environmental Justification

Abstract:

This Research paper is an attempt to deliberate up on Investment in Public Project, which is being termed as opposing to the principle of sustainability as it involves certain degree of Environmental harm. There is a general view that Infrastructure is being developed, by degrading and harming the Natural Environmental barriers. One such Eco-beneficial element of marine biodiversity is Mangroves. Recently, Mumbai Coastal Road has been awarded clearance for implementation by Cutting/ Replacing/ Replanting 45000 Mangroves. Thus, the author has tried to deliberate upon all the Pros and Cons involved in the Project. It is observed that, present level of congestions is having detrimental effect on Human Health, prolonging Trip time multi-fold times, drastically increasing fuel consumption and ultimately leading to Environmental damage through unwanted Pollution and release of Green House gases. While, the topic may seem as an Environmental degradation, but is basically an issue of Financial Investment in Sustainable Project. After, study it is established that Congestion of Traffic is bigger problem than cutting of Mangroves. It may ultimately lead to destruction of mangroves if not challenged at this stage. Congestion is leading to huge Financial losses due to Excessive expenditure on fuel for same distance travelled, Losses due inefficient delivery of manpower and goods which are direct consequences, while surge in Indirect cost spent on Health issues both Physical and Mental, Expenditure for recoupment of Environmental damage, Losses of Eco-services, Losses due to higher Carbon Footprint and GHG which all need to be expressed in financial terms.

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