Mumbai Metro 3 Project: MMRDA Invests INR 12 Crore to Plant 2,931 Trees
The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) has recently come under scrutiny for its spending on tree plantation along the route of Metro 3, also known as the aqua line. According to reports, MMRCL claimed to have spent INR 12.01 crore to plant a total of 2,931 trees, with an average cost of INR 41,000 per tree. This revelation has raised questions about the transparency and efficiency of the project, as well as the justification for such high costs.
Financial Boost for Mumbai’s Infrastructure Projects
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) recently secured a loan of INR 31,673.79 crores from the Power Finance Corporation (PFC) to fund nine crucial infrastructure projects in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). These projects are aimed at transforming the transportation landscape, enhancing connectivity, boosting economic growth, and improving the overall quality of life for the region’s residents.
A formal agreement was signed between MMRDA and PFC on September 26, marking the financial closure of several critical initiatives. The loan is designed to cover 80% of the total project costs, with the remaining 20% being financed through government grants and contributions from MMRDA.
Questionable Tree Plantation Costs
The controversy surrounding the tree plantation costs by MMRCL has drawn attention to the discrepancies in the reported expenses. Initially, the company claimed to have planted 2,931 trees at an average cost of INR 41,000 per tree. However, further investigation revealed that the actual number of trees planted and their locations were not provided by the company.
Moreover, the revised cost of INR 41,000 per tree was significantly higher than what the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) pays for each tree. The discrepancy has raised concerns about the transparency and accountability of the project, as well as the need for a thorough review of the expenses incurred.
Allocation of Loan for Infrastructure Projects
Out of the total sanctioned loan amount, a significant portion will be allocated specifically for the Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Project. With an allocation of Rs. 15,071 crores, this initiative aims to reduce travel time between the two bustling cities and ease congestion along one of the busiest routes in the region. The project is expected to provide much-needed relief to thousands of commuters who travel between Thane and Borivali on a daily basis.
The remaining Rs. 16,602.79 crores from the loan will be utilized to support eight other significant infrastructure projects in the region. These projects include the construction of the Thane Coastal Road (Phase I), the extension of the Eastern Freeway from Ghatkopar to Thane, and the development of an elevated road from National Highway No. 4 to Katai Naka.
Additional projects under this loan facility include the construction of multiple creek bridges and access roads to connect Thane, Kharbao, Bhiwandi, and surrounding areas. The development of elevated roads along the Eastern Express Highway and Kalyan Murbad Road to Badlapur Road will also be undertaken, along with the construction of a railway overbridge over the Waldhuni River.
An elevated road from Anand Nagar to Saket in Thane city, alongside a creek bridge from Gaimukh to Payegaon, is also planned as part of the infrastructure development projects funded by the loan. These initiatives are expected to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and improve the overall transportation infrastructure in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
Overall, the allocation of the loan for these critical infrastructure projects signifies a significant investment in the future development and growth of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The focus on enhancing connectivity, reducing congestion, and improving the quality of life for residents reflects a strategic approach to urban development and sustainable growth in the region.
