Mumbai
A loan of $42 million has been approved by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support coastal and riverbank protection in Maharashtra. The loan is aimed at increasing the resilience of local communities and natural protection ecosystems.
The Maharashtra Sustainable Climate-Resilient Coastal Protection and Management Project will focus on addressing coastal erosion and riverbank protection. Solutions such as offshore reefs, sheet piles, beach nourishment, and vegetation planting will be implemented to restore and stabilize the coastline.
The project will also demonstrate the use of hybrid approaches, including offshore reef construction and rock protection works. Nature-based solutions, such as beach and dune nourishment, will be applied to strengthen the coastal defenses.
ADB will provide assistance to build the capacity of the Maharashtra Maritime Board in shore management planning. This will include establishing a coastal infrastructure management unit. The project will also support training programs on coastal management and livelihood activities, with a focus on gender equality and social inclusion.
The project aims to address climate change threats like sea-level rise and coastal erosion. Flexible solutions will be applied to adapt to various climate scenarios. The initiative will also help improve fisheries and tourism, while promoting participation from women, youth, and vulnerable groups in managing coastal zones.
