Mumbai: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has decided to plant 25,000 new trees in the Mira Bhayandar region. This afforestation drive aims to compensate for the environmental impact of Metro Line 9, which spans 10.54 km from Dahisar East to Mira Bhayandar.
According to a senior official, a key highlight of thie initiative is MMRDA’s commitment to preserving existing green cover by prioritizing tree transplantation over indiscriminate felling. A comprehensive two-phase tree survey was conducted at the Dongri depot site to assess the ecological impact.
“During the first phase of the survey, 2,500 trees were identified as affected by the metro project. Out of these, 1,668 trees were safeguarded—574 were marked for transplantation, while 1,094 were left undisturbed. Only 832 trees were proposed for removal, a number significantly reduced due to MMRDA’s conservation strategies” said an official.
Expanding its efforts in the second phase, MMRDA identified an additional 7,016 trees for transplantation within the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC) jurisdiction. This brings the total number of transplanted trees to 7,590. However, 3,716 trees that could not be relocated will be removed, a necessary step for depot construction.
“To ensure minimal ecological disruption, MMRDA has launched a large-scale afforestation initiative, planting 25,000 new trees across Mira Bhayandar. This reforestation effort exceeds the number of trees affected by the project, reinforcing the authority’s dedication to environmental sustainability” further added official.
According to a senior officer, beyond tree conservation, MMRDA is incorporating advanced eco-friendly technologies in Metro Line-9. “The implementation of regenerative braking systems will convert kinetic energy into electricity, reducing the metro’s carbon footprint. Additionally, precast construction methods and green-certified metro stations further enhance the project’s sustainability” he said.
“By prioritizing tree transplantation, afforestation, and green technologies, MMRDA is setting a benchmark for eco-friendly infrastructure development. As Metro Line-9 progresses, it not only promises improved connectivity but also reflects Mumbai’s commitment to a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable urban future” further added official.
7,590 trees to be transplanted
1,094 trees will remain as it is
3,716 – To be cut
To compensate 3714 trees, a total of 25000 new tress will planted
