An upcoming Special Economic Zone (SEZ) project in Thane is threatening a large chunk of wetland along the Thane Creek -- designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BNHS and BirdLife International (UK).

Researchers from BNHS and Thane-based Paryavaran Dakshata Manch (PDM), who recently visited the area for a bird survey, as per orders from the National Green Tribunal, Western Zone Bench, Pune, were prevented from entering the cordoned off premises.