Coastal Groups Raise Concerns Over Manori Desalination Project, Seek Review Of BMC NOC Conditions From Maharashtra Govt

Mumbai's coastal communities voiced their apprehensions over the proposed Manori desalination project and the NOC granted by the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The community leaders met with Maharashtra Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane at Mantralaya, expressing their worry that the BMC may have disregarded the safeguards embedded in the NOC.

These safeguards were meant to protect local fishing areas and traditional livelihoods. Rane promised to raise the issue with the Chief Minister and arrange a meeting with the BMC Commissioner. Bernard D'Mello, the Working President of Akhil Maharashtra Machhimar Kriti Samiti (AMMKS), stressed that these safeguards are not mere formalities, but are crucial for the survival of traditional fishing communities.

The delegation was also disappointed with MMB's response, which suggested they should approach the BMC instead of challenging the NOC. Switsy Henriques, President of the Gorai Villagers Welfare Association, questioned the authority's accountability, arguing that a conditional approval entails responsibility. Protests are planned for October 19, 2026, at the Collector's Office.

The desalination plant, which will generate 400 million litres of water daily, is intended to alleviate Mumbai's water supply shortfall, currently standing at 4,665 million litres against a demand of 4,100 MLD.