Pradip Patade, marine enthusiast, said that while it was good news for nature enthusiasts, the boardwalks should be built in a manner that they do not affect the mangroves in anyway
Birdwatchers visiting Bhandup pumping station, one of the best known locations for birding in the city, can soon look forward to do so inside the mangroves themselves, to catch a glimpse of migratory flamingos, among several other birds in the creek and mudflats.
Given that so many birdwatchers and children visit the place, and it having hardly any facilities, Maharashtra State Mangrove Cell has stepped in and is planning to set up mangrove boardwalks at the end of the trail, as well as information boards along the tracks to provide nature enthusiasts a much better experience.
"This place is known for its amazing biodiversity and is visited round the year by not only birders, but also insect and reptile enthusiasts. We are planning to provide boardwalks which people can use to walk in the mangroves and experience this unique ecosystem and understand its role," said N Vasudevan, Additional PCCF, Mangrove Cell, adding that the work will begin post monsoon.
He said that those visiting can take the 1.5 km boardwalks that will be made of eco-friendly material, all the way up to Thane creek. "They will be able to enjoy a better view of the birds and the entire pristine mangroves. Apart from this, the information boards will raise awareness about the rich biodiversity of the place as well as information on mangroves," shared Vasudevan
Naturalist and avid birder, Saurabh Sawant, who leads several birding trails under Mumbai Birdwatchers Club (MBC) said that currently one can only walk the trail and reach the creek to see flamingos from boats run by fishermen. "Setting up information about the biodiversity found here, the habitat and uniqueness of this place will be ideal and those leaving will go back informed," he said, adding that those visiting are likely to spot several birds of grasslands, scrubs, and even waders in the creek, apart from flamingos.
Welcoming the idea of having the boardwalks, Sawant said that for visitors, it would be an added excitement to move along the mangroves as well as watch flamingos.
Pradip Patade, marine enthusiast, said that while it was good news for nature enthusiasts, the boardwalks should be built in a manner that they do not affect the mangroves in anyway.
Bhandup Pumping Station is a waste water treatment plant run by BMC, located along the Eastern Express Highway. A couple of trails emerge close to it and end up near the creek.
Nature enthusiasts
- Pradip Patade, marine enthusiast, said that while it was good news for nature enthusiasts, the boardwalks should be built in a manner that they do not affect the mangroves in anyway.
- Bhandup Pumping Station is a waste water treatment plant run by BMC, located along the Eastern Express Highway. A couple of trails emerge close to it and end up near the creek.
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