Mapping Mumbai's Wetlands: A Blueprint for Preservation

The Maharashtra Environment Department is cataloging wetlands across Mumbai with a national research body's help. Following a survey, documentation and mapping are underway. Once finalized, results will undergo reviews before notification, with input from the public and committees ensuring comprehensive coverage and preservation strategies.

The Maharashtra Environment Department is spearheading an initiative to classify and formalize the wetlands in Mumbai and its suburbs, backed by a national research organization. This move came to light through an RTI appeal by activist B N Kumar, who inquired about the survey status in Maharashtra, particularly the Powai Lake wetland.

Officials disclosed that Mumbai's wetland surveys are complete, and documentation and mapping efforts are actively proceeding at the NCSCM level. The outcomes will subsequently be forwarded to the District Wetland Monitoring Committee for assessment.

Following the reviews, a Technical Committee alongside the State Wetland Authority will deliberate on recommendations, which will then be submitted for state government notification post-public consultation.

(With inputs from agencies.)