The Sanpada underpass project in Navi Mumbai is set for redesign after IIT Bombay recommended changes to reduce tree loss while improving traffic flow. The draft review advised modifying the original layout to minimise impact on the Palm Beach Road green belt. The NMMC has been asked to prepare a revised plan incorporating environmental and safety considerations.

The proposed Sanpada underpass project is set for a redesign after the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, in its draft technical review submitted to the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC), recommended significant changes to minimise tree loss while meeting the project's traffic objectives.

Months of Protests by Residents Over Tree Felling

The institute has advised the civic body against proceeding with the original design, instead suggesting a revised engineering plan that balances traffic improvement with environmental conservation. According to the draft report, the project can be executed through a modified roundabout and access arrangement that reduces the footprint within the green belt, thereby limiting the impact on mature roadside trees.

The recommendations come after months of protests by residents and environmental groups over the proposed felling and transplantation of hundreds of trees along the Palm Beach Road stretch. Citizen groups, including Palm Beach Greens and NatConnect Foundation, had organised silent human chains at Sanpada and outside the NMMC headquarters, urging the civic body to redesign the project instead of sacrificing the city's green cover.