The Bombay High Court has taken a firm stance on protecting Mumbai's precious green cover, expressing serious concern over illegal constructions encroaching upon the boundary of Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP). The court has directed authorities to take immediate action to safeguard this vital ecological zone that serves as the green lung for both Mumbai and Thane.
Court's Stern Warning to Authorities
During a recent hearing, the division bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Arif Doctor didn't mince words when addressing the encroachment issue. The court emphasized that SGNP represents the 'crown jewel' of the Mumbai-Thane region and must be protected at all costs from illegal occupation and construction activities.
The Boundary Wall Controversy
The heart of the matter revolves around incomplete boundary walls and disputed construction activities along the park's perimeter. The court has specifically questioned why certain boundary walls remain unfinished, potentially allowing encroachers to claim portions of the protected forest area.
Multiple Agencies Under Scanner
The High Court has brought several government bodies under scrutiny, including:
- Forest Department officials
- Municipal corporations of Mumbai and Thane
- Revenue department authorities
- Local planning agencies
All these entities have been directed to coordinate and submit a comprehensive plan to address the encroachment threats and complete the necessary boundary demarcation.
Why SGNP Matters to Every Mumbaikar
Sanjay Gandhi National Park isn't just another protected area—it's an essential ecological treasure that provides numerous benefits:
- Acts as Mumbai's primary green lung, improving air quality
- Hosts diverse flora and fauna, including leopards and numerous bird species
- Offers recreational space for millions of city residents
- Helps maintain ecological balance in the densely populated metropolitan region
What Happens Next?
The court has set clear deadlines for authorities to present their action plan and demonstrate concrete steps taken to protect the park. Regular monitoring and status reports will ensure that the protection measures don't remain merely on paper but translate into visible results on the ground.
This judicial intervention comes as a significant step toward preserving one of the world's few national parks located within city limits, ensuring that future generations of Mumbaikars can continue to benefit from this natural heritage.
