Thane: The Thane City District Congress has strongly protested against the large-scale reclamation of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) areas, mangrove forests, and wetlands. The party alleged that the construction of the coastal road from Saket to Anand Nagar is being used as a cover for encroachment on creeks and large-scale environmental destruction, while the authorities are turning a blind eye. Thane District Congress President Rahul Pingle made these allegations.

City Faces Flood Threat as Natural Buffers Are Destroyed

Rahul Pingle said that mangrove forests, which are crucial for flood control and biodiversity conservation, are being destroyed in broad daylight. Creek banks are being extensively reclaimed by dumping debris, waste, and mud. He further alleged that despite submitting complaints backed by concrete evidence, the authorities have failed to take any action.

The Congress warned that the destruction of wetlands in Saket, Balkum, Kolshet, Dhokali, Waghbil, Kasarvadavali, and Anand Nagar could lead to severe flooding in the future. Filling up natural water bodies and drainage channels, the party said, would pose a serious threat to the lives and property of thousands of residents.

The Congress demanded that criminal cases be registered against the land mafia, contractors involved in the reclamation of creeks, and officials who are allegedly supporting these activities. It also called for the immediate restoration of the destroyed mangrove forests and wetlands.

The party asserted that the people of Thane would not tolerate environmental destruction in the name of development. It warned that if the authorities fail to act, the Congress would launch intensified street protests and approach the courts. The party further stated that if those responsible for protecting the environment continue to remain silent, the government would bear full responsibility for any future flooding caused by the destruction of these natural ecosystems.