Mumbai: Environment ministry affidavit proposes Aarey as Eco-Sensitive Area

Yesterday’s affidavit before green tribunal states the MoEF has proposed area of up to four kilometres from SGNP as Eco-Sensitive Area (ESA); entire Aarey colony falls under this classification

In a major setback for the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC), an affidavit (copy available with mid-day) filed by the Ministry of Environment and Forest before the National Green Tribunal yesterday states that it has proposed the area of up to four kilometres from the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) be earmarked as Eco-Sensitive Area (ESA). To MMRC’s dismay, the entire Aarey Milk Colony falls under this classification.

Time and again, residents and activists have produced pictures to prove that Aarey supports wildlife. Pic/Imran Udat

The MoEF submitted affidavit on behalf of respondent number 1, wherein it stated that the submission was being made in is being filed in compliance of the NGT order dated January 13, 2015.

In August 2015, mid-day had reported about the order in which the National Green Tribunal (NGT) had directed the BMC to deny NOC for new constructions in Aarey.

It also directed the civic body to take immediate action against illegal constructions.

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