The Congress party's Thane unit has expressed serious concerns regarding the Coastal Road extension project, claiming it involves extensive land reclamation that displaces mangroves and disrupts natural water channels in the Balkum-Thane creek area. Rahul Pingale, the unit president, highlighted that such reclamation could obstruct the natural flow of rainwater during monsoon seasons, increasing the risk of flooding. He stressed the critical role of mangroves in maintaining ecological balance and protecting coastlines. The party has called for an independent environmental assessment to analyze the project's impact on biodiversity and watercourses, criticizing the lack of action from regulatory bodies such as the Thane Municipal Corporation and the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority. They have formally requested a high-level inquiry and have lodged complaints with local authorities, urging prompt intervention. The Coastal Road project, which aims to connect Gaimukh to Kharegaon, is seen as essential for alleviating traffic congestion on the Ghodbunder highway, thereby reducing pollution in the area.