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A family of four were allegedly harassed by the State Mangroves Cell (SMC) while they were visiting the Thane creek to see flamingos. They had booked a private boat ride, which is usually operated by the fishermen community in the area. The owner of the boat, Bharat Khedakar, had the required permissions to carry 13 passengers onboard. However, the SMC still detained the family, who had gone to Bhandup Pumping Station (BPS) to see the flamingos and slapped a fine of Rs 5,000 on them. The incident happened on Thursday morning.