The Aarey forest and the controversy surrounding the proposed construction of the Metro Car Shed has not simmered down. In fact, it is now more complicated than ever, since the four-member committee set up by Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray to find an alternative to Aarey has submitted a report stating that there are “no viable alternatives available”. It is now being said that committee members have also recommended lifting the stay on the construction work in the area.
Meanwhile, a spokesman for the Mumbai Regional Congress Committee, Sachin Sawant, said “The report is still not in the public domain. The government (an alliance of Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress) is sensitive enough and will make a decision which is in the interest of Mumbaikars.”
However, those who originally protested the use of the Aarey land are firm in their belief and are encouraging the authorities to look for more alternative sites. Environmental Activist Zoru Bhathena said: “I am yet to see the report, but reports say the committee is of the opinion that Aarey needs to be protected. The committee has looked at only two other sites. Why not look at all the options? It has not involved any of us. We are not saying we are right, but at least hear us.”Citizens on the other side of the debate suggest that any ecological loss incurred by the construction of the Metro Car Shed in Aarey will be more than compensated thanks to the Metro operations, which is a green project in itself. Regardless of what side of the discussion you are on, it’s clear that the debate will go on for months to come as the State Government contemplates its next course of action.