20 July,2026 06:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Mumbai`s Bhandup Ramsar wetland to be transformed with Rs 45 crore Eco Nature Park (Representational image)
The Maharashtra government will develop an eco-nature park and a state-of-the-art birdwatching centre at the Ramsar-designated Bhandup wetland at an estimated cost of Rs 45 crore, Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar announced on Monday, July 20.
As per the official statement, the project, proposed by BJP MLA Mihir Kotecha, has received approval for funding through the Mumbai Suburban District Planning Committee, with work expected to commence shortly.
Announcing the project, Maharashtra Minister Shelar said that the Bhandup wetland, recognised as a Ramsar site, is one of Mumbai's most significant ecological assets and is home to more than 250 species of birds, including the iconic flamingos. The wetland attracts birdwatchers, researchers, students and tourists from across the country throughout the year.
Shelar asserted, "The project aims to promote eco-tourism while ensuring the conservation of the area's rich biodiversity."
According to the minister, the proposed eco nature park will feature information galleries, dedicated birdwatching decks and advanced high-resolution camera systems that will stream live or recorded footage of birds to large display screens whenever direct sightings are not possible. The project will also include native grasslands, butterfly habitats and environmental education facilities to enhance visitors' understanding of the region's ecosystem.
Shelar also inspected the project site on Monday and said the development would be undertaken through the Suburban Special Fund under the guidance of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
He also added, "The initiative will strengthen environmental conservation while encouraging greater public participation in protecting Mumbai's natural heritage."
Welcoming the approval, BJP MLA Mihir Kotecha thanked Shelar for clearing the proposal without delay. He said that while a bird park is already under development in Mulund, the Bhandup wetland offers a unique opportunity to showcase Mumbai's rich biodiversity.
"After the Bird Park in Mulund, the Eco Nature Park at Bhandup will become another major attraction in Mumbai. The wetland, which supports over 250 bird species, including flamingos, is visited year-round by bird enthusiasts, researchers, students and tourists. The Eco Nature Park will strike a balance between tourism and environmental conservation while preserving Bhandup's natural heritage," Kotecha added.
He added that work on the project is expected to begin at the earliest, paving the way for a new ecotourism destination while safeguarding one of Mumbai's most important wetland ecosystems.
