Mangrove Park to be developed in Uran, Maharashtra by Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT)
The eco-sensitive zone of Uran in Navi Mumbai has long been under threat of Mangrove degradation because of the debris dumping defying the recurring orders from the Mangrove committee to stop it. In order to preserve the rich mangrove patch lies in Raigad district, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), the largest container container terminal in India is planning to develop a 200 hectare mangrove park in the region.
Taking a stand towards environmental prudence, JNPT has engaged the Forest Department Corporation of Maharashtra (FDCM) to conduct a study on the feasibility of the plan as it is to be developed in two phases .
The first phase of the park is expected to be ready by June 2021, it will have various zones of dense mangrove patches, mangrove walkthroughs (boardwalks), nature interpretation centre, and a nursery with rare mangrove species. The idea is to develop a biodiversity park which will have arrangements to impart information related to mangrove growth and its advantage to visitors through mangrove trails, The second phase will be aimed at the preservation of water bodies which is a vital migratory bird habitat in this region.
In India, mangroves are mainly found on the east (Sunderbans) and west coasts of the mainland and on the Andaman and Nicobar islands and Lakshadweep.
Cover image by New Acropolis
