Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 13: In a strong display of environmental awareness, nearly 300 citizens gathered at Versova Beach on April 12 for a peaceful protest titled “Green Mumbai Sunday,” urging the protection of the city’s mangroves, forests, and open spaces.

The event, organised by Save Mumbai Mangroves, brought together supporters from various grassroots movements such as Save Aarey and Save SGNP, along with other citizen-led initiatives focused on preserving Mumbai’s fragile ecological balance.

Participants marched from the beach’s entrance to the Seven Bungalows rocks, raising slogans against environmental degradation and calling on authorities to adopt sustainable development practices. The march concluded with a gathering featuring speeches, songs, and poetry dedicated to conservation efforts. A human chain formed along the shoreline symbolised solidarity and collective resistance.

Members of the local Koli fishing community also voiced concerns, highlighting the ecological and economic importance of mangroves. One speaker noted that the nearby creek hosts several mangrove species with medicinal value, describing them as vital to the community’s livelihood and warning against their loss due to development.

Several speakers alleged that affected communities have not been adequately consulted in decisions related to coastal and infrastructure projects.

The demonstration comes amid concerns over the proposed Versova-Bhayandar Coastal Road, which received clearance from the Bombay High Court in December 2025. Activists claim the project could impact more than 45,000 mangroves in the region.

While the Supreme Court of India has not yet intervened, activists say they are preparing to pursue fresh legal challenges on new grounds.

Organisers emphasized that the April 12 gathering highlights the need for continued public involvement. Participants stressed that development must not come at the expense of environmental survival, warning that Mumbai’s ecological future depends on accountability and sustained citizen action.