September 11, 2025: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has prepared a Draft Zonal Master Plan (ZMP) for the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), aimed at promoting eco-tourism and regulating sustainable development. The draft was made public on Wednesday, with citizens invited to submit suggestions and objections over the next 30 days.
According to the plan, only 34% of the ESZ — around 2,032 hectares — comprises forested green areas, while 66% remains undeveloped. However, a significant 33.21% of the zone is already developed, including land occupied by slums, residential use, industrial activity, commercial establishments, and transport infrastructure.
Of SGNP’s total 104 km boundary, 59.4 km has been designated as eco-sensitive, with the largest stretch of 35 km falling under BMC’s jurisdiction. The draft outlines that developed land includes 138 hectares for commercial use, 146 hectares for industrial purposes, 184 hectares occupied by slums, and 256 hectares used for housing. Around three per cent each has been reserved for public amenities and transport facilities.
The undeveloped portion of the ESZ includes 34.5% forest cover, nine per cent water bodies, and 7% agricultural land. The ZMP, drawn up in line with a 2016 directive from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), seeks to safeguard the ecological integrity of the zone while providing livelihood opportunities through eco-friendly tourism.
Proposals include the development of sustainable villages, homestays, eco-lodges, wellness centres, and nature-based activities such as trekking, hiking, and boating. The plan also discourages polluting industries and harmful activities within the zone.
The BMC has urged citizens to send their feedback to its development planning department or the respective municipal offices in Thane, Mira Bhayandar, Vasai Virar, and Palghar.
Source: The indian Express
