Hundreds of environmentalists, trekkers, nature lovers and local residents gathered near the Chitalsar–Manpada entry point of Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) on Sunday to voice their opposition to projects they believe could threaten one of Mumbai’s most vital green lungs.
The protest, organised under the banner of Mission Save SGNP, drew participants despite heavy rains. Responding to a widespread online campaign, demonstrators carried placards and banners calling for the protection of the forest ecosystem and urging authorities to prevent further encroachment and large-scale development in and around the national park.
One of the major concerns raised by the protesters was the Thane Municipal Corporation’s proposal to develop a Biodiversity Park in a portion of the ecologically sensitive forest area. Environmental activists argued that the region already supports a rich natural ecosystem and does not require conversion into a man-made park. They stressed that the forest should be preserved in its natural form.
Participants also expressed concern over several ongoing and proposed infrastructure projects, including the Borivali tunnel project, the Foothill Road connecting Gaimukh and Mulund, and the proliferation of illegal constructions such as bungalows and resorts. They warned that these developments could cause irreversible damage to the area’s biodiversity and ecological balance.
Activist Nishant Bangera said the entire forest stretch should remain untouched to safeguard its fragile ecosystem. “Our demand is simple—protect the forest in its natural state and prevent any activity that could harm its biodiversity,” he said.
Speaking at the gathering, Sashi Kumar Nair of Kokanipada recalled that the area was once popularly known as the “Kashmir of Thane” because temperatures there were significantly cooler than the rest of the city due to the dense forest cover. He cautioned that replacing greenery with concrete structures would have serious environmental consequences and urged authorities to preserve SGNP for future generations.
Another resident, Nitin Singh from Manpada, said many people had chosen to live near the national park for its peaceful surroundings and greenery. However, he noted that increasing development and the large-scale felling of trees have raised concerns about congestion, environmental degradation and the loss of the area’s natural charm.
Environmental groups have appealed to the government and civic authorities to reconsider development proposals in and around SGNP and to prioritise the long-term conservation of one of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s most important ecological assets.