Daijiworld Media Network (SR)

Mumbai, Jun 30: The National High Speed Rail Corridor (NHSRCL) has decided to redesign the upcoming station in Thane, a move that will save 21,000 mangrove trees. There was concern among general public and environmentalist when it was announced that more than 52,000 mangrove trees will be felled to make way for the Thane bullet train station. 

As reported in Indian express, Achal Khare the managing director of NHRCL told the publication that “The environment ministry while giving us clearance asked us to rethink the design or location of the station to reduce the effect on mangrove trees. Moving the location was not an option, so we went back to the table and communicated this to the Japanese expert team.''

The proposed Thane station is inside the mangrove zone near the Thane creek. Khare said “We have decided that only the elevated area, including the platform will be inside the mangrove zone. The ground floor facilities, such as parking and other services, were taken out of the mangrove zone to ensure the least damage to the area.” 

The re-design of the project plan, according to Khare, will help save more than 21,000 trees. “From 52,000 trees, we are now down to 32,000 trees. Even for these, we will pay the mangrove cell to carry out the afforestation,” he said. 

Ajeet Tyagi, an environmentalist said “This move is appreciated but it should be noted that this is like putting a band aid on a bullet wound. At least steps are being taken to make the project environmentally conscious. I will be able to comment better after I get more information.