A year has passed since the Maharashtra government formed a special committee to investigate the damage to the city's wetlands. Yet, the committee's report has not been released. There have been questions regarding the purpose of such committees.
The committee was established in response to numerous complaints from Navi Mumbai activists about the loss of wetlands and mangroves. The committee's task was to investigate these issues and propose solutions to stop the damage to the environment.
Several activists raised their concerns. One activist had accused the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) of destroying wetlands for a golf course in Nerul. Another called for the protection of coastal wetlands in Kharghar. Damage has also been reported on mangroves near the Seawoods and under the Mankoli flyover in Dombivli.
The state's Department of Environment and Climate Change issued a circular outlining the committee's composition and responsibilities. The committee will consist of representatives from various authorities and experts. It was expected to investigate all grievances within 30 days and submit its findings. However, a year has passed with no report in sight.
The committee visited the sites in November 2022. Since then, there has been no response regarding the report. The report was supposed to address or refute the issues raised.
Despite the silence from the committee, activists are not backing down. They are exploring legal options, even as mangroves continue to be destroyed. The activists are now hoping for the bench to hear their pleas soon.
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