Thane Residents Intensify Protest Against Integral Ring Metro Project, Raise Concerns Over Trees, Traffic And Displacement

On Sunday, September 6, residents of Thane took to the streets in protest against the Integral Ring Metro project. The Thane Against Integral Ring Metro (TAIRM) organized the protest and was supported by prominent citizens, business leaders, and environmental activists. The opposition grew after the success of the signature campaign the previous week.

Protesters marched along Pokhran Road from Swami Junction to Prashant Corner, forming a human chain to voice their concerns. They questioned the feasibility of the proposed project, criticizing the administration for its plans. The Thane Municipal Corporation and Maha Metro, responsible for the Inner Ring Metro, have faced significant backlash from local residents.

Critics argue that the project will lead to extensive environmental damage, including large-scale tree felling, displacement of citizens, and increased traffic congestion during construction. Environment activist Rohit Joshi called the approval to cut down 3,900 trees illegal, citing the absence of a Tree Authority Committee with citizen representation. He warned of legal action if proper public hearings are not held before tree cutting.

Activist Advocate Radhika Rane pointed out that tree transplantation is ineffective, with 80% of transplanted trees failing to survive. She urged the government to first assess the ridership of Metro Lines 4 and 5 before justifying the need for an internal ring route. Protester Meghna Jadhav emphasized the importance of keeping Thane clean and green, arguing against unnecessary metro infrastructure.

Civic groups have threatened legal action, and resistance to the project continues to intensify.