Navi Mumbai: Forest Minister Ganesh Naik’s ambitious plan to establish four dedicated mangrove parks in Navi Mumbai has officially commenced, with the forest department appointing architects to design parks at Airoli and Ghansoli.
Mumbai-based CoBOL Architects & Planners has been awarded the contract for preparing conceptual and detailed architectural designs for these two mangrove parks. The consultancy assignment, valued at ₹20 lakh, includes site analysis, environmental assessments in coordination with experts, and the integration of sustainable and green building principles.
The architects will also design visitor amenities such as pathways, decks, interpretation centres, and signage while ensuring ecological sensitivity and innovation in design.
According to the work order, the designs will reflect a context-sensitive approach that aligns with the ecological importance of the mangrove ecosystem.
Welcoming the move, NatConnect Foundation—which has long advocated for mangrove parks in the city—hailed the project as a vital initiative to raise public awareness about the crucial role mangroves play in preserving marine biodiversity.
NatConnect director B N Kumar recalled that the proposal for such parks was first suggested to the then Konkan Commissioner and High Court-mandated Mangrove Committee chairman Jagdish Patil in August 2020 as part of an eco-tourism initiative.
“We have recently submitted a fresh proposal to Minister or creating a mangrove walkway at the sea plant restoration site near Vashi village, close to the railway station,” Kumar said. He added that Minister welcomed the suggestion and forwarded it to the forest department for consideration. "We are hopeful this will materialize soon," he said.
NatConnect also pointed out that the mangrove cell has cleared illegal slums that had encroached upon mangrove lands, opening up space for a wooden walkway to be constructed without harming the ecosystem. The natural growth of mangrove plants will resume once the intertidal water flow is restored.
The proposed Vashi site is seen as ideal due to its proximity to transport facilities like the railway station, bus depot, and parking areas. NatConnect has also suggested the establishment of a mobile mangrove experience and information centre at the location to further engage visitors and promote environmental awareness.
The developments mark a significant step towards creating eco-friendly public spaces while ensuring the conservation of the city’s vital mangrove cover.
