Activists Rally on World Migratory Bird Day Amid Wetland Crisis in Navi Mumbai
World Migratory Bird Day march intensifies as activists warn of ecological collapse in Navi Mumbai
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
On World Migratory Bird Day, activists in Navi Mumbai highlighted the ecological crisis facing the DPS Flamingo Lake, following alarming findings of water contamination and habitat degradation. The National Green Tribunal has directed restoration efforts, but concerns persist over urban development threatening these vital wetlands.
- 01Activists held a silent march to raise awareness about the ecological crisis at DPS Flamingo Lake.
- 02Water contamination levels exceed safe limits, threatening the habitat of migratory flamingos.
- 03The National Green Tribunal has ordered restoration efforts, but urban development pressures remain.
- 04A conservation proposal aims to expand protected wetland areas, pending approval from state authorities.
- 05Environmentalists warn that wetland destruction could lead to severe flooding in Navi Mumbai.
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On World Migratory Bird Day, a silent march was held between the NRI and DPS Flamingo wetlands in Nerul, Navi Mumbai, to draw attention to the region's ecological crisis. Activists, environmentalists, and residents gathered with banners demanding the protection of wetlands and migratory birds. This protest follows a directive from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which flagged significant ecological damage at DPS Flamingo Lake, including blocked tidal channels leading to toxic algal accumulation. Recent laboratory tests revealed alarming levels of contamination, with Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels reaching 14.8 to 23.6 mg/L, far above the safe limit of 3–5 mg/L. Activists argue that the ongoing urban development threatens the delicate balance of this ecosystem, with a proposal to expand the protected area from 12 hectares to 36.8784 hectares awaiting approval. They warn that the destruction of wetlands could result in severe flooding for Navi Mumbai, as these areas act as natural sponges for excess rainwater. Despite Cidco's claims of compliance with NGT orders, activists remain skeptical, citing ongoing issues with tidal flow and sewage discharge. The controversy underscores the tension between urban expansion and environmental conservation in Navi Mumbai.
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The degradation of wetlands in Navi Mumbai poses a risk of flooding and loss of biodiversity, impacting local communities and wildlife.
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