India’s first dedicated mangrove park, currently in its final stages of construction in Mumbai’s Gorai village, is expected to open to the public by mid-August, most likely ahead of Independence Day. Developed at a cost of over Rs 33 crore, the eco-tourism initiative aims to offer an immersive experience into the unique and vital mangrove ecosystem.
Spread across eight hectares, the park is being built by the Mangrove Cell of the Maharashtra state government and will include a range of attractions designed to both educate and engage visitors. One of the standout features is a 750-metre-long elevated wooden boardwalk that goes through dense mangrove forests. The boardwalk leads to a scenic viewing deck, offering panoramic views of the surrounding creek and wetlands, IE reported.
Tranquil, informative nature experience
“We have proposed an entry fee to the state government. The revenue generated will be used for maintenance and preservation of the park,” a senior forest department official said, noting that the ticket prices would be finalised once the proposal receives approval.
The park’s construction began in 2021 and it has been designated as a forest reserve. It includes several eco-friendly design features such as the use of sustainable materials, solar-powered utilities and structures designed to minimise disruption to local flora and fauna.
Birdwatchers’ paradise
A major draw for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers will be the 18-metre-tall watchtower, which will provide expansive views and opportunities to observe the many avian species that inhabit the mangroves.
To further its educational mission, the park includes a two-storey Nature Interpretation Centre, complete with informational displays, reading panels and a library focused on mangrove ecology, the report further said. The centre will also house a rooftop restaurant and a nature-themed gift shop, offering refreshments and souvenirs aligned with the park’s ecological focus.
Final touches to the park are underway, including polishing walkways, installing lighting and completing paintwork. The official said that they expect the final construction activities to wrap up in the next month. The park should be ready to welcome visitors before August 15, the official added.