Changing City: India's first Mangrove Park getting ready in Mumbai's Gorai, final work under progess
About the Gorai Mangrove Park
The park project, sprawling over 8 hectares in Gorai village, features several elements that will enable visitors to walk through the ecosystem and learn about the biodiversity found within mangroves and coastal systems.
According to officials, no trees were hampered during the construction works, which were carried out with an eco-sensitive approach.
The project has been developed by the Maharashtra Forest Department's Mangrove Cell.
Specifications, features of the project
A key feature within the park is a 750-metre-long wooden boardwalk that traverses through the mangroves.
At the end of this walkway lies a viewing deck wherein visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding creek. Similar to the newly opened nature trail in Malabar Hills, this elevated walkway was built without disturbing the ecosystem.
Catering to the bird watchers, the project also comprises an 18-meter watch tower allowing visitors to observe the avian species that thrive in the area. This watchtower also offers expansive views of the mangroves and creek.
In a bid to impart vital education and recreation, the Mangrove Cell has also constructed a two-story Nature Interpretation Centre. Here visitors can read and learn about the mangrove and its biodiversity through informative boards, panels, and books at the library and the information centre.
Additionally, the structure will feature a rooftop restaurant and a nature-themed gift shop.
To ensure minimal impact on the fragile fauna and flora, the project was executed through the use of eco-friendly materials, solar energy, and elevated walkways.
Cost and timeline
The entire project has been constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 33.43 crore. The construction began in 2021, with the project already earmarked as a forest reserve.
Initially slated for inauguration by World Environment Day, June 5, this year, the opening has been postponed to July due to the final stages of construction.
Administration speaks:
'Presently, some finishing works and internal exhibits are pending. The entire pending work is expected to be completed in a month's time, when we are eying to open it. Although the costs are yet to be finalised, the park is likely to have a ticket system. The objective behind this is not revenue generation but to recover the costs for maintenance. This project, with its features of a 750-metre boardwalk, watchtower, and nature interpretation centre, will enable citizens to enjoy the views of mangroves and creeks while also gaining information about the mangrove ecosystem and its biodiversity,' said S V Ramarao, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Mangrove Cell.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
India's first underwater metro in Bengal: PM Modi's 'historic gift' for Kolkata; will inaugrate 3 metro projects before Durja Pooja
Kolkata is set for a major transport boost next week, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to inaugurate three metro projects on 22 August. Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar on Thursday announced that PM Modi will be unveiling the Sealdah–Esplanade stretch of the Green Line, the Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby Crossing)–Beleghata stretch of the Orange Line, and the Noapara–Jai Hind (airport) stretch of the Yellow Line. Majumdar shared the update in a post on social media platform X, along with an invitation from Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to the ceremony. With the Sealdah–Esplanade link complete, the Green Line, touted as India's first underwater metro, will become fully operational, connecting Howrah Maidan to Salt Lake Sector 5. This will also mean a metro link to Kolkata airport for the first time. Calling it a 'historic gift' for West Bengal ahead of Durga Puja, Majumdar said the projects would benefit countless commuters. According to the invitation letter, the inauguration will take place at Jessore Road metro station on the Yellow Line in the city's northern suburbs. Currently, the Green Line operates in two separate sections, Howrah Maidan–Esplanade and Sealdah–Salt Lake Sector 5. Work on the Sealdah–Esplanade stretch had been delayed by a series of subsidence incidents in Bowbazar, in the city's central area. The long-awaited opening is expected to ease travel for thousands heading to the IT hub in Sector 5, as the Green Line connects with the Blue Line at Esplanade and links both Howrah and Sealdah railway stations. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Is Why Smart People Always Keep Baking Soda At Home Read More Undo During the event, PM Modi will also inaugurate a new subway at Howrah metro station. The Yellow Line's new extension will offer a direct metro link to the airport and connect with the Blue Line at Noapara, aiding air travellers and residents of the northern suburbs. The Orange Line, already in use between New Garia and Ruby Crossing, will now extend to Beleghata, providing better connectivity for those living in the eastern and southern suburbs. In his letter, Vaishnaw stressed the Centre's commitment to improving train services and infrastructure in West Bengal. He noted that projects worth Rs 83,765 crore are currently underway in the state, with a record Rs 13,955 crore allocated in this year's budget. Vaishnaw added that 101 railway stations in West Bengal are being redeveloped, while nine Vande Bharat and two Amrit Bharat trains are already in service. Metro Railway Kolkata, which operates the city's mass rapid transit network, is a zone of the Indian Railways.
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
CM inaugurates first-ever 'zero waste tribal festival' in Keylong
1 2 Shimla: Chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday virtually inaugurated the first-ever 'Zero Waste Tribal Festival' in Keylong of Lahaul and Spiti district from Shimla. He also laid the foundation stone of five bridges worth Rs 36.4 crore in Udaipur sub-division. The tribal festival, which would conclude on Aug 16, is being organised for the first time in the state on the theme of 'Zero Waste'. The event aims to promote environmental conservation and showcase the unique art and culture of the district. The CM stated that the event would provide tourists with an opportunity to know the region better. Climate change has posed serious challenges to the country and the state, and Lahaul-Spiti is no exception, with unusually heavy rainfall in the district being a major cause of concern, said Sukhu. He added that the state govt is taking all possible measures to provide relief during disasters and is working with the central govt to ensure environmental protection. A team of scientists, with the Centre's support, is conducting a detailed study on incidents of cloudbursts, said the chief minister. Sukhu also mentioned that Lahaul-Spiti has emerged as a model district in women empowerment , and the traditional products of the area would be promoted under the 'Him-Ira' brand. Sukhu also laid the foundation stone for five bridges in Udaipur sub-division under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Phase-3, to be built at a cost of Rs 36.4 crore. These include a 35-metre steel truss bridge over Chaikhang Nallah costing Rs 9.9 crore, a 49-metre double-lane steel truss bridge over the Chenab river costing Rs 9.4 crore, a 22-metre RCC T-beam bridge over Kishori Nallah costing Rs 17.6 crore, a 76-metre RCC beam bridge over Teling Nallah costing Rs 13.3 crore, and a 22-metre RCC beam bridge over Moring Nallah costing Rs 1.8 crore. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area. "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
Hindustan Times
3 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Kolkata's Alipore Zoo: Meet giraffes, jaguars and kangaroos in the heart of the city
When was the last time you visited a zoo with your family? When you're raising twin boys, finding ways to tire them out without exhausting yourself is a skill worth having. I've learnt that the sweet spot lies in slow-paced outings that are interesting enough to keep them engaged, but gentle enough on my nerves. We often choose zoo visits, lazy boat rides and strolls in leafy parks, and these have become our go-to activities whenever we're travelling. Topiary that welcomes you as you enter the Alipore Zoo in Kolkata(Hindustan Times) So there we were in Kolkata, soaking in the energy of its traffic and old-world charm. The trams rattled by, horse carts waited outside Victoria Memorial, jhal muri sellers worked their magic on the streets, and puchka (the local name for pani puri) vendors popped up on every corner. The local carts, or thelas, were piled high with star fruits and water apples. As February eased into its final days, the drizzle gave way to perfect walking weather. It felt like the right day for the zoo. First impressions When I say this is one of the most underrated places to explore in the city, I truly mean it. Over 50 of my local relatives shook their heads, insisting it was not worth a visit and they had not been there at all or many years ago, and Google reviews did not give me much hope either. Still, we decided to give it a shot. We arrived at a slightly worn-out gate, saw the Rs. 50 per adult entry fee, and wondered if the day might disappoint. On the other side of the ticket counter, it felt like stepping into a secret garden. A beautifully kept lawn with animal-shaped topiary led us towards the real stars of the show. The Alipore Zoological Garden is large, well-maintained and home to an impressive variety of wildlife from India and abroad. We saw zebras, giraffes, rhinoceroses, hippos, kangaroos, jaguars, and birds, including cassowaries, hornbills, exotic parrots, and peacocks. Five things you might not know about Alipore Zoo, Kolkata 1. Alipore Zoo in Kolkata opened to the public in 1876, making it the oldest formal zoo in India. 2. It covers about 47 acres and uses open-air moated enclosures that resemble natural habitats. 3. The zoo once housed Adwaita, an Aldabra giant tortoise believed to be over 250 years old when it died in 2006. 4. It has been a pioneer in breeding white tigers, reticulated giraffes and the endangered Manipur brow-antlered deer. 5. In 1889, the birth of a Sumatran rhinoceros here marked a rare global achievement in captive breeding. The authors excited sons posing in front of the animal pens and enclosures.(Hindustan Times) Why it works Enclosures are spacious, with areas where animals can rest away from public view. Paved paths, benches and refreshment stalls make it easy to explore comfortably. Toilets are located at opposite ends of the zoo for convenience. The animals appeared healthy and relaxed, with no signs of stress. The weather that day was a gift, warm enough for short sleeves yet cool enough to walk for hours without breaking a sweat. We wandered through leafy paths, stopping often to rest on shaded benches, never once feeling rushed or tired. The twins eagerly read every fact on the animal display boards, pointing out details to each other like little wildlife experts. Their excitement peaked when a dozen giraffes suddenly broke into a graceful gallop across their open enclosure, their hooves kicking up little clouds of dust. Moments later, the deep, guttural roar of a jaguar drew a small crowd, while the kangaroos kept us waiting for a good half hour before casually hopping out, sending a ripple of cheers and camera clicks through the visitors. My son's verdict in the end, and I quote, was, ' Mom, this is like being at a safari without going to the jungle!' Getting there and eating nearby Parking is limited, so taking a cab or Uber is the easiest option. The main gate faces the Taj Bengal, making the approach pleasant and easy to spot. We chose to have lunch before entering, which was a smart move with children. We ate at Somponno, a nearby café serving a Bengali-Chinese take on noodles that was surprisingly good. You will also find plenty of other cafés nearby if you check online maps. Some birds we spotted at the Kolkata Zoo(Hindustan Times) Tips for the best visit Set aside at least three hours to see everything comfortably. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the grounds are extensive. Weekdays are quieter, though you may run into school trips. Choose cooler weather to make the walk more pleasant and to see more active animals. If visiting with children, go after breakfast or lunch to avoid mid-visit hunger. India is full of hidden treasures, and the Alipore Zoo is one worth adding to your list. Pair a visit here with a steamer ride across the Hooghly River, some puchka from a local vendor while you get set to take a yellow taxi back across the Howrah Bridge, or an evening at Victoria Memorial with a ride in the horse carriages outside, along with a box of Bengali sweets, and you have the perfect Kolkata day. Similar articles for you Tropic of Cancer, one of Bhopal's underrated gems: Scenic drive you cannot miss Get vacation-ready! Up to 80% off on top picks for trolley bags Travel smarter, not harder: Your guide to affordable trolley bags under ₹2500 Alipore Zoo in Kolkata: FAQs What is the entry fee for Alipore Zoo? Entry is Rs. 50 per adult. Children's tickets are usually cheaper, and there may be different rates on public holidays. What are the zoo timings? The zoo typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. Check the official website or local listings for exact seasonal timings. How long does it take to explore the zoo? Set aside at least three hours if you want to see all the animals comfortably and include a few rest breaks. What is the best way to get there? Taking a cab or an Uber is the easiest option, as parking is limited nearby. The zoo is right opposite Taj Bengal, which makes it easy to spot. Disclaimer:At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
