Birdwatchers in Mumbai, get excited! The possibility of being up close, to our city’s pink-hued migratory guests will soon be a reality. Thane’s mangrove creeks will now be host to one-hour rides organised by the state government, that’ll take individuals around the sanctuary famed for its high population of flamingos. N. Vasudevan, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest State Mangrove Cell said, “Opportunities to view flamingos in Mumbai or the surrounding wetland patches were only possible from a distance at locations such as Sewri, Uran, etc. Now, as we promote regulated tourism in this sanctuary, visitors will be able to view these migratory birds and the mangrove ecosystem from very close.”
The inauguration of these boats will occur either towards the end of January; but the boats will be opened up to the public, February 1, 2018. This particular mangrove sanctuary in Mumbai boasts of being one of the first of its kind in the country, stretching on from Airoli to Vashi. The trips will be conducted on boats that can seat up to 24 people — although smaller boats are available for those who wish to navigate through more of the groves. The smaller speed boats can only hold seven people, with an overhead cost of INR 5000. A single seat on the larger boat though, will cost you INR 300 during the week and INR 400 on the week.
The Better India even reported that guests will be handed a manual with details of the birds in the creek, along with a guide (trained by the Bombay Natural History Society) who will keep you company through the ride. For those worried about these rides disrupting the flamingos’ natural habitat, fret not, N. Vasudevan also mentioned that the speed of these boats will be regulated so as to not disturb the birds.
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