Mumbai's Feathered Future: Nine Bidders Vie for Nahur Exotic Bird Park Project

Mumbai is on the cusp of unveiling a spectacular new attraction: an international-standard exotic bird park in Nahur. This ambitious project, spearheaded by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), has taken a significant step forward, attracting a robust response with nine bidders vying for the prestigious contract.

Estimated at Rs 18.99 crore, the park promises to be a vibrant addition to the city's landscape, designed to captivate visitors and boost ecotourism.

The proposed site, a sprawling 1.5-acre plot nestled near the foothills of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) in Nahur’s F-North ward, is envisioned as a haven for avian wonders.

The plan calls for an impressive setup: four aviary domes housing approximately 200 birds from 20 exotic species. Beyond the breathtaking enclosures, the park will feature state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated veterinary room, a meticulous food preparation area, and a crucial quarantine zone to ensure the health and well-being of its feathered residents.

Visitor amenities will also be top-notch, with plans for a ticket counter, an administrative office, a charming souvenir shop, a delightful cafeteria, and ample parking space.

This isn't the city's first foray into creating a grand bird sanctuary. Earlier attempts to establish a similar facility within the Byculla Zoo faced numerous delays and significant cost escalations, eventually being scrapped.

However, the Nahur project is a distinct initiative, charting its own course with a clear vision and an accelerated timeline. The BMC anticipates floating the tenders by the end of May, with an ambitious goal to complete the construction within 12 to 18 months once the work order is issued. The selected contractor will be responsible not only for the design and construction but also for the critical maintenance of the park for a period of five years.

While the prospect of a world-class bird park is undoubtedly exciting, the project has not been without its share of concerns.

Local residents and environmentalists have voiced strong apprehension regarding the potential ecological impact of such a large-scale development so close to the sensitive Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Their worries primarily revolve around the disturbance to the natural habitat of migratory birds, the integrity of wetlands crucial for local wildlife, and the overall impact on the delicate ecosystem of the SGNP’s periphery.

Critics point out that the plot was originally earmarked for a municipal school in 2007, raising questions about the change in land use.

In response to these environmental considerations, BMC officials maintain that the chosen location falls outside the designated eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of the national park.

Furthermore, they have committed to appointing a specialized environmental consultant to rigorously assess and mitigate any potential adverse effects. The corporation aims to strike a balance, delivering a significant public attraction while adhering to environmental safeguards. As Mumbai eagerly awaits this new jewel in its crown, the Nahur Exotic Bird Park project stands as a testament to the city’s ambition, poised to become a major tourist magnet that promises both wonder and a gentle reminder of our shared responsibility towards nature.