Versova-Bandra Sea Link Fishermen Compensation Decision in Two Months, Says Shinde

The Maharashtra government will resolve the long-pending issue of compensation for fishermen affected by the Versova-Bandra Sea Link project within two months of receiving a study from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced on Thursday in Bandra.

Speaking during a review meeting held via videoconferencing, Shinde stated that TISS is currently conducting a detailed study to formulate specific criteria for compensating project-affected fishermen. Once the institute submits its findings, the state government will move to finalize and distribute substantial compensation packages.

The meeting was attended by key officials and stakeholders, including Fisheries Development Minister Nitesh Rane, Fisheries Department Secretary M. Ramaswamy, Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation Managing Director Anilkumar Gaikwad, former MLA Kiran Pawaskar, and representatives from various fishermen’s organizations.

Discussions during the session centered on the ongoing TISS assessment framework and the broader impact of infrastructure work on local fishing livelihoods. Aside from financial compensation, attendees reviewed proposals to construct dedicated support infrastructure in the Juhu-Versova belt, including a new jetty, specialized net-fixing areas, and a fish-drying yard.

The issue of compensation for fishing communities impacted by the Mumbai Coastal Road project was also raised during the discussions. Shinde instructed concerned authorities to take prompt action to resolve outstanding claims related to the Coastal Road work without unnecessary delay.

Reiterating the administration's stance, Shinde stated that the state government stands firmly with the fishing community and remains committed to addressing and resolving their ongoing livelihood challenges.