A GIS-Based Comparative Environmental Sustainability Assessment of an Underground Metro Corridor in Coastal Mumbai

Abstract

Coastal cities are also experiencing growth in their urban areas, and hence the need to develop alternative and better transportation facilities. The underground metro rail is a viable alternative for the population and is also beneficial for environmental sustainability. However, there are major challenges to be addressed while constructing such facilities. For instance, excavation in such regions demands thorough analysis, and tracks cannot be laid without a thorough understanding of the regions beneath the earth’s surface. This research is focused on Mumbai Metro Line 11 and attempts to assess various environmental factors such as air quality, noise pollution, and changes to the ecosystem and CRZ regulations. Using Geographic Information System technology, the research attempts to integrate genuine environmental data and compare them with other metro rail projects. Based on the secondary indicators examined, the findings suggest that environmental sensitivity tends to be greater in cities that are both coastal and densely populated, although this observation is indicative rather than conclusive and warrants further primary validation. Hence, thorough planning is required to include innovative designs to address geographical constraints and environmental damage.