Government invites expressions of interest for eco-tourism in Thane creek

The mangrove cell of Mumbai has issued a notice inviting expressions of interest (EoI) in order to develop a participatory eco-tourism plan for the Thane creek.

The central government had announced a flamingo sanctuary on August 6 which would encourage public participation in the conservation and management of existing Coastal and Marine Protected Area (CMPA).

The work for the same is expected to start from December this year. The project has covered three sites in Maharashtra: Thane Creek in the Mumbai region and the coastal stretch from Velas to Dabhol and Ansure Creek in Ratnagiri.

The objective is to assess the potential and carrying capacity of Thane Creek with respect to eco-tourism and development of an integrated community based eco-tourism plan for Thane Creek.

“Stakeholders at local, state and national levels are being involved in the project. They will contribute to the conservation of areas rich in biodiversity, without compromising its resource at the same ensuring livelihood options for the local population,” stated an official.

Environment activists and bird lovers have welcomed the proposal for eco-tourism. “This a good idea initiated by the authorities though it is important to invest part of the revenue earned for the conservation of the flamingos and other species. Also with an increase in the number of visitors, it will be essential to ensure the birds are undisturbed in order to avoid their unexpected migration,” said Pawan Sharma from Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare.

“The various exhibits that will be placed in this centre will give visitors detailed information about the marine biodiversity of the area,” said N. Vasudevan, chief conservator of forest (CCF) from the state forest department’s Mangrove Cell.

According to the tender issued by the mangrove cell, the assignment will take three months from the date of signing the contract which means the facility should be ready by March 2017.