PC (Grow billian Trees, The Batter India)
Mumbai is set to welcome its first dedicated mangrove forest park in Gorai, an 8-hectare eco-tourism destination developed by the Mangrove Foundation (Mangrove Cell) of the Maharashtra Forest Department. This ₹33.43 crore project aims to promote environmental education, biodiversity conservation, and low-impact tourism while preserving the fragile mangrove ecosystem.
The park was originally expected to open to the public on May 1, 2026, coinciding with Maharashtra Day. However, recent updates indicate the inauguration has been delayed, with the latest reports suggesting it is likely to open in April 2026 or shortly thereafter, once final formalities are completed.
740-Metre Elevated Wooden Boardwalk the highlight of the park is this scenic walkway that winds through the dense mangrove forest without cutting down a single tree. It offers visitors an immersive experience deep into the coastal ecosystem. 18-Metre Bird Observation Tower (Watchtower) an 18-metre-tall structure providing panoramic views of Gorai Creek and excellent opportunities for birdwatching. Visitors can spot local and migratory birds, making it a paradise for photographers, researchers, and nature enthusiasts. Nature Interpretation Centre abtwo-storey, 1,517 sq m educational hub featuring interactive exhibits on mangrove conservation, climate change, and biodiversity. It includes a library, audio-visual room, workshop spaces, a nature-themed gift shop, and a rooftop restaurant.
120 kW rooftop solar panels expected to meet over 80% of the centre’s energy needs. Steel cantilevering structure to minimize concrete use.Self-sustaining sewage treatment system.Eco-friendly design that integrates existing mangroves without disruption. Additional attractions include guided trails with naturalists, a touch-based information system with virtual reality insights into mangrove flora and fauna, and a viewing deck overlooking the creek.
Mangroves act as vital coastal barriers, nurseries for marine life, and carbon sinks. Mumbai boasts over 50 sq km of mangroves – among the highest for any major city globally. This park will help raise awareness about their role in protecting the city from floods and tsunamis, as highlighted during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2005 Mumbai floods.
The project has been approved by the Maharashtra State Eco-Tourism Board as an official ‘Eco-Tourism Project’. It emphasizes minimal environmental impact, education, and sustainable practices. This mangrove park is expected to become a popular spot for Mumbaikars and tourists seeking a peaceful connection with nature, right within the bustling city.