Plans have been unveiled for a new state-of-the-art zoo in Thane, marking a significant development for urban infrastructure and wildlife conservation. Proposed by MLA Pratap Sarnaik, the project aims to establish a garden and zoo in Kasarvadavli, Thane, designed to meet international standards comparable to those in Hong Kong and Singapore. Sarnaik said that the environmentally-friendly zoo aims to attract 1.5 to 2 crore visitors from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and is expected to be completed within the next three years.
The proposed zoo was one of several development projects reviewed during the meeting held at Vidhan Bhavan, focusing on the Ovala-Majiwada constituency. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his support for the initiative, promising to expedite the project along with other developmental works in the region.
While speaking to LokmatTimes.com, Sarnaik said, "This new zoo will not only provide a recreational space for Thane residents but also serve as an important educational resource for wildlife conservation. It will provide much-needed green space in the rapidly developing city.”
Key features of the proposed zoo include:
1.Location: The zoo will be constructed near the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, providing a natural setting.
2.Collaboration: Next week, a joint survey will be conducted by the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) and the forest department to demarcate the zoo area.
3.Design: The majority of the zoo area will feature a bamboo forest, with minimal safety enclosures for animals and birds. Construction will emphasize the use of timber to adhere to forest department norms. Sarnaik also informed that they are planning for a special butterfly garden.
4.Expert Consultation: Specialists will be hired to determine the zoo's theme, including the types of animals to be housed and plants to be grown.
Other projects discussed during the meeting included the development of a tourist spot in Yeoor, infrastructure improvements related to the ongoing metro work in Bhayandar, and various initiatives by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) in the Mira-Bhayandar and Thane areas.
While supporters view the zoo as a valuable educational and recreational resource, environmentalists caution against potential ecological impacts. Naturalist and Retired Asst Prof. in Zoology Clara Correia stated, "Existing flora and fauna conservation should happen first and later the new projects should be declared. Mumbai is surrounded by many wetlands, including mudflats, mangroves, saltpans, creeks, freshwater lakes, and estuaries. The destruction of wetlands at Thane Creek and Ghodbunder road is evident. 9 different species of duck used to come at Thane creek."
She emphasized the need to prioritize existing conservation efforts. "If authorities are talking about zoo near Sanjay Gandhi National Park, they should increase safaris and entry points from Ghodbunder road inside the national park first. Thane is a beautiful city that has a historical significance of lakes and natural habitats that needs to be looked upon," said Correia.
Retired zoology professor Poonam Kurve offered a more positive outlook on the project, saying, "Zoo in Thane will be a good mode of conservation. Young generation will get to know more about birds and animals as it is not possible for everyone to visit forest. Future generations will get to know more about wildlife."
However, she also cautioned about the selection of animals for the zoo: "Animals that can survive in the climatic conditions should be given more priority rather than rare species that are unsuitable for the climate."