Home / Environment / Navi Mumbai's Flamingo Haven Choked by Algae, Awaiting Official Status
Navi Mumbai's Flamingo Haven Choked by Algae, Awaiting Official Status
28 Feb
Summary
- Flamingo lake's conservation status delayed by administrative red tape.
- Green algae blooms due to stagnant water and impaired drainage threaten habitat.
- Cidco's continued control hinders forest department's maintenance efforts.
The DPS Flamingo Lake in Nerul, Navi Mumbai, a crucial destination for migratory flamingos, is under threat due to administrative delays. Despite the State Wildlife Board approving its Conservation Reserve status in April 2025, a formal Government Resolution (GR) has yet to be issued. This delay has left the lake vulnerable, with a thick carpet of green algae spreading, potentially depleting oxygen and degrading the habitat.
Environmentalists attribute the algae bloom to stagnant water resulting from impaired intertidal flow, as outlet pipelines are positioned too high for proper drainage during low tide. Furthermore, the main southern water flow channel is blocked by an access road built by Cidco, which continues to control the lake despite conservation plans. Mangrove Cell's clean-up efforts were stalled by these jurisdictional issues.
Cidco maintains that the area is developable land and has posted warning signs. Environmental groups are appealing to the Chief Minister for intervention, emphasizing the need for the GR and the transfer of lake maintenance to the Forest Department. The continued delay weakens conservation enforcement and fragments control over the vital wetland.
Flamingos, which use DPS Flamingo Lake as a secondary habitat, are currently concentrated in Gujarat's wetlands, with migration towards Mumbai expected by mid-March. Experts warn that the health of the wetland is critical; if the habitat is compromised, the birds may bypass the area, impacting local biodiversity and conservation efforts.
