Sanjay Gandhi National Park: High Court Moves to Stop Encroachments and Preserve Heritage
Context:
- The Bombay High Court has formed a high-powered committee led by a former Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court.
- Purpose: To protect and preserve the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) from illegal encroachments and human interference.
- Significance: SGNP is a crucial ecological asset for Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
About Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP):
Overview:
- SGNP is a protected forest and national park covering 104 sq. km in Mumbai and Thane, Maharashtra.
- It is one of the few national parks worldwide located within a metropolitan city.
- The park serves as a vital ecological buffer for urban areas.
Location:
- Situated in northern suburbs of Mumbai, spanning:
- Borivali
- Malad
- Kandivali
- Bhandup
- Mulund
- Extends up to Thane city.
Key Features:
- Establishment: Renamed Sanjay Gandhi National Park in 1996.
- Heritage: Houses the ancient Kanheri Caves (1st century BCE), a significant Buddhist heritage site carved into basalt rock.
- Ecological Role:
- Acts as Mumbai’s “green lung”, absorbing carbon emissions and replenishing groundwater.
- Maintains urban microclimatic balance.
- Biodiversity Hotspot: Supports a rich variety of flora and fauna, essential for ecological sustainability.
Flora:
- Over 1,000 plant species, including:
- Teak
- Bamboo
- Karvi (Strobilanthes callosus)
- Diverse grassland vegetation
- Karvi mass flowering occurs every eight years, attracting botanists, researchers, and tourists.
Fauna:
- Mammals: 40 species, including leopards, bonnet macaques, deer, and wild boars.
- Birds: Over 250 species, including hornbills, drongos, peacocks, and migratory flycatchers.
- Supports urban biodiversity conservation and wildlife research.
Conclusion:
- The High Court’s initiative emphasizes the urgent need to protect SGNP from encroachments and environmental threats.
- Preserving SGNP is critical for:
- Biodiversity conservation
- Maintaining ecological balance in Mumbai
- Sustaining the environmental health and quality of life for city residents
Source : The Hindu