The Balaji Temple project in Navi Mumbai has become the center of a controversy as green groups raise concerns over Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) violations and environmental impact. The Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) recently granted CRZ permission for the temple’s construction, reducing the buildable area to a mere one-fourth of the original plot. This decision has sparked outrage among environmentalists who claim that the temple site is linked to the destruction of mangroves and wetlands.
Reduced Buildable Area Sparks Controversy:
The controversy revolves around the reduction of the buildable area for the Tirupati Venkateswara temple in Navi Mumbai. The MCZMA approved the CRZ permission during its 167th meeting held on May 23. However, green groups argue that this decision is not only illegal but also fails to account for the history and ecological significance of the temple plot.
Temporary Casting Yard and Mangrove Destruction:
The NatConnect Foundation, an environmental advocacy group, highlights that the temple plot was originally a part of a temporary casting yard that emerged after the destruction of mangroves spanning over 16 hectares. This transformation of mangrove-rich land into a casting yard has raised significant concerns regarding ecological impact and habitat loss.
CRZ Classification and Construction Limits:
The temple plot has been divided into different CRZ classifications based on proximity to the shoreline. Of the 40, 000 square meter temple plot, 2748. 18 square meters fall under CRZ1A, 25, 656. 58 square meters in CRZ2, while 11, 595 square meters lie outside CRZ. The MCZMA approved construction on only the non-CRZ area of 11, 595 square meters, which amounts to only one-fourth of the originally allocated land.
Hidden Information and Controversial Approvals:
Environmental activists allege that crucial information about the temple plot being part of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link’s casting yard was hidden from the MCZMA. The Mumbai Metropolitan Regional Development Authority (MMRDA), responsible for the Trans Harbour Link, reportedly agreed to allocate 10 acres for the temple by September 2023. However, this arrangement was apparently concealed during the approval process, raising concerns about transparency.
Environmental Impact and Legal Violations:
The MMRDA obtained environmental clearance for the casting yard at the Nhava end, involving the diversion of mangroves and filling of intertidal wetlands. This activity has raised alarms regarding its environmental impact. Green groups argue that the CIDCO, which oversees the mangroves and wetland area, should have restored the biodiversity instead of facilitating permanent reclamation, which they deem illegal.
Erosion of Fishing Community Rights:
The temple project’s construction has inadvertently impacted the local fishing community. The casting yard and subsequent temple development have disrupted the traditional fishing zone, depriving the community of its constitutional right to engage in fishing activities. This has further exacerbated the environmental and social tensions surrounding the project.
The controversy surrounding the Balaji Temple plot in Navi Mumbai underscores the need for transparent and environmentally conscious decision-making processes. As green groups continue to voice concerns over CRZ violations, mangrove destruction, and the erosion of local rights, the responsible authorities must revisit the approvals and engage in a comprehensive assessment of the project’s ecological impact. Balancing cultural and religious aspirations with environmental sustainability remains a critical challenge that requires collaborative efforts and responsible governance.
