Mumbai, Dec. 27 -- Citizens have launched an online petition opposing the proposed Versova-Dahisar coastal road, demanding an immediate halt to the project, a review of environmental clearances and the protection of mangroves along the city's coastline. The petition flags the proposed cutting of nearly 45,675 mangroves and urges the state government to explore alternatives that minimise ecological damage and safeguard the city's natural flood barriers. Activists who began the protest said the campaign has begun gaining traction, with 174 signatures collected so far. They added that the immediate target is to reach 1,000 signatures, after which the petition will be submitted to the chief minister's office "We are confident of reaching 1,000 (signatures) soon. We are also pushing for at least 100 people to turn up and show visible public opposition," said environmental activist Natasha Pereira who began the petition. Activists are also concerned that mangrove destruction linked to the project has already begun at some locations, including near Madh, where large stretches are reportedly being cleared. Mangroves are protected under coastal laws and play a key role in preventing flooding, soil erosion and damage during extreme weather events. Manan Desai, an activist associated with the campaign said large infrastructure projects along the coast are steadily weakening these natural defences. "Once mangroves are lost, the damage is irreversible. The city ends up paying the price during every monsoon," said Desai....