October 21, 2025: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has extended the bid submission deadline to October 31 for the development of the exotic bird park at Nahur West, citing a low response from bidders. This marks the third extension since the original tender was issued on August 29 with a submission deadline of September 19.
The project, however, has drawn controversy over transparency and cost escalations. BJP MLA Mihir Kotecha has voiced strong objections to the repeated extensions, alleging that the tendering process appears “compromised.” In a letter addressed to Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, Kotecha accused officials of favoring “tainted firms” and urged that the tender be handed over to another department to ensure transparency.
A civic official explained that the latest extension followed consultations with higher authorities to encourage more firms to participate. Despite the criticisms, the civic body maintains that all procedures have been conducted appropriately.
The proposed bird park, spread across 17,139.64 square meters, will utilize around 10,859 square meters for its main facilities. The selected contractor will be responsible for both the construction and the two years of maintenance. The park will feature a range of exotic species, including sun conures, golden conures, eclectus parrots, African grey parrots, ostriches, toco toucans, and black swans.
“Enclosures will be made of stainless steel tensile wire mesh to replicate natural habitats and ensure safety. Dedicated holding areas with artificial water bodies and habitat replicas will be created for pelicans, ducks, cranes, and ostriches,” an official said.
The design includes an amphitheatre, knowledge centre, seating area, walkways, and restaurant, along with an artificial waterfall, a hospital, and quarantine facility for bird care, and underground parking for 60 cars.
Source: The Free Press Journal
