Thane: Deputy CM Eknath Shinde on Friday announced a proposed “Green TDR” (transfer of development rights) policy aimed at mangrove protection in the region and positioning it as part of the state’s broader response to climate change and ecological degradation.Speaking at a property exhibition in Thane, Shinde said the policy would allow landowners and developers to voluntarily surrender mangrove-bearing land to the forest department in exchange for TDR, which could be utilised in construction projects elsewhere.“We are facing climate change and global warming, which is becoming a serious challenge. There is a need to collectively conserve green cover and curb illegal activity in CRZ areas and mangroves,” Shinde said.While detailed guidelines are awaited, officials indicated the policy could help safeguard mangroves located on private land — often vulnerable to unregulated clearing — by offering a financial incentive for preservation.The announcement comes amid heightened scrutiny over mangrove loss linked to the Versova-Bhayander Coastal Road Project, which has sparked protests and sharpened tensions between environmental groups and the administration in recent weeks.
