Green min finds basic flaws in coastal rd plan WHAT THE MINISTRY LETTER SAID

The BMC may be pushing for quick green clearance to get its showpiece coastal road project off the ground. The Union Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), however, has pointed out basic shortcomings that could spell more delays for the project.

In a letter dated July 22, the MoEF said the coastal road proposal recommended to the ministry by Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) has several deficiencies — no disaster management plan, issues with environment impact reports and no approval from the state and central pollution control bodies.

The Rs12,000-crore road along the western coast will connect south Mumbai and Malad and is being positioned as a project that would change the way Mumbai commutes. But it has been mired in controversy, as it needs land from the sea and mangroves.