Mumbai/Navi Mumbai, April 2026: In a significant shift amid environmental concerns, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has approached the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay to rework the design of the Palm Beach Road underpass project in Sanpada, aiming to minimise tree loss.
Move to Save Maximum Trees
The decision comes after strong public opposition to the project, which initially proposed removal or transplantation of 440 trees—including 111 for felling and 329 for relocation.
Officials said the revised design will focus on saving as many trees as possible while retaining the project’s core objective.
IIT Bombay to Provide Technical Inputs
NMMC has sought expert guidance from IIT Bombay to explore:
- Alternative engineering designs
- Alignment changes
- Construction methods that reduce environmental impact
Civic Commissioner Kailas Shinde emphasised that while the underpass is necessary for traffic management and urban growth, tree conservation will now be a key priority.
Project Work Already Underway
Preliminary work for the project has begun, including:
- Soil testing and excavation up to 9 metres
- Assessment of underground utilities like pipelines and cables
Two trees have already been cut near the project site as part of initial activities.
Balancing Development and Environment
The underpass near Sanpada’s Moraj Circle is aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity, especially with rising vehicular pressure in Navi Mumbai.
However, the large-scale tree impact sparked protests, prompting the civic body to reconsider aspects of the design.
Positive Response from Environmental Groups
Environmental activists and citizen groups have welcomed the move, calling it a step towards sustainable urban planning.
Experts believe that involving IIT Bombay could help achieve a balance between infrastructure development and ecological preservation.
Hope for a Revised, Eco-Friendly Plan
With technical evaluation now underway, residents are hopeful that the final design will:
- Reduce tree cutting significantly
- Preserve Navi Mumbai’s green cover
- Deliver infrastructure benefits with minimal ecological damage
