Mumbai's Gorai mangrove park ready but stuck waiting for VIP inauguration

Bird observatory for coastal and mangrove species

The opening of the much-awaited Gorai Mangrove Park has been delayed again, with officials citing the unavailability of ministers and dignitaries for the inauguration, even as the project has been ready for months.

Facilities at the mangrove park in Gorai, including a cafe, washrooms, ticket counter, and library, are ahead of its public opening. Pics/Satej Shinde

The park, earlier expected to open in the second week of April, is now likely to be inaugurated around May 1 or a week earlier, sources told mid-day. The Maharashtra Forest Department has not officially confirmed a revised date.

At a glance

Project: Gorai Mangrove Park
Location: Gorai, Mumbai
Status: Ready but not opened
Likely opening: Around May 1 (unconfirmed)
Delay reason: Awaiting the availability of dignitaries
Cost: Rs 33.43 crore

Concerns raised

Environmentalist Mili Shetty questioned the continued delay and accessibility concerns. "Nature lovers have waited years to see the Gorai Mangrove Park open, yet all they've received are news and talks without actual access. This is not a political issue; it is about whether a public ecological space truly serves the public," Shetty said.

The 740-metre boardwalk winds through mangroves without felling trees

She also flagged timing and affordability. "If the opening is timed when schools are running, an entire generation of children will miss the chance to connect with these fragile ecosystems. And if the entry fee is pegged at around Rs 500, it raises a serious question - is this park meant for awareness or exclusivity?"

Delay over the inauguration schedule

A Forest Department official said the delay is linked to scheduling issues. "The Gorai Mangrove Park, though ready for opening this month, has been delayed as the Forest Department is awaiting a suitable date from the minister and other dignitaries for the inauguration. It is now likely to be opened later this month or on May 1," the official said. A senior official from the Mangrove Cell added, "Date is not yet finalised."

Project ready, but gates shut

mid-day had earlier reported on March 12 that the park, developed by the Mangrove Cell of the Maharashtra Forest Department, was expected to open in April.
>> All civil and finishing work has been completed
>> CCTV cameras have been installed
>> A souvenir shop has been set up
>> Despite this, the park remains closed to the public

Political push

On March 9, mid-day reported that Aaditya Thackeray had written to Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, urging early inauguration of the park.

What does the park offer?

Area: 8 hectares in Gorai
Boardwalk: 740 metres, built without cutting mangroves
Experiences: Guided trails with trained naturalists
Facilities: Bird observatory for coastal species
Technology: Touch-based VR system on mangrove ecology
Status: Approved eco-tourism project