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Forest Under Threat: Citizens Unite to Save SGNP
5 Jul
Summary
- Hundreds gathered to protect the national park from infrastructure projects.
- Protesters oppose Thane Municipal Corporation's 'Biodiversity Park' plan.
- Activists cite Borivali tunnel and illegal structures as ecosystem threats.
Hundreds of citizens, trekkers, and environmentalists united on Sunday morning to voice their solidarity in protecting the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) and its adjacent forest areas. They are opposing numerous infrastructure projects that they fear could critically damage the ecosystem.
The protestors, who assembled despite heavy rain, responded to a viral online campaign. Their demonstrations included carrying posters expressing their firm resolve to safeguard the forest and resist man-made development.
A significant demand from the activists is to halt the Thane Municipal Corporation's proposal to convert a portion of the ecologically sensitive forest into an artificial 'Biodiversity Park,' overlooking its already thriving natural state. They also cited mounting pressure from projects like the Borivali tunnel, the Foothill road, and numerous illegal structures, including bungalows and resorts, which risk irreversible damage.
Residents expressed deep concern over the potential loss of the area's natural appeal and cooler climate, which once earned it the moniker 'Kashmir of Thane.' The fear of increased congestion and strain on existing infrastructure due to widespread construction is also prompting some residents to consider relocating.
