The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is moving forward with plans to transform a 12,964 sq m land parcel in Marol, located along the Mithi River, into what could become Mumbai’s first publicly accessible urban forest.
Spread over about 3.2 acres, the plot falls under the Recreation Open Space (ROS 1.4) category in the city’s Development Plan. Although the site already contains nearly 150 trees, civic officials say it has remained largely unused for several years. The redevelopment proposal aims to convert the area into a nature-focused green zone that blends ecological restoration with public recreational use.
Officials said the project is designed to enhance biodiversity while providing residents of nearby neighbourhoods in Andheri East with a much-needed open space in one of the city’s densely developed areas.
The site had previously been considered for the second phase of the city’s urban forest initiative, but the proposal did not progress at the time. The civic body later decided to pursue the project using corporate social responsibility (CSR) funding, after which initial groundwork began.
Local MLA Murji Patel had also raised the issue with the civic administration, noting that the land parcel had remained unusable for residents and suggesting that it be developed into a public open space for the community.
According to the proposed design, the urban forest will feature multiple ecological zones intended to support biodiversity. Planned elements include a Miyawaki forest patch, bamboo clusters, bird habitat areas, native grasslands, butterfly gardens, sacred groves and sections dedicated to medicinal plants.
In addition to plantation and ecological restoration, the project will incorporate visitor-friendly amenities such as walking trails, open lawns, outdoor fitness areas, children’s play zones and seating spaces for senior citizens. Specially designed garden sections for toddlers and elderly visitors are also planned to ensure inclusive use of the space.
Deputy municipal commissioner Vishwas Mote said initiatives like these are becoming increasingly important in cities where climate conditions are changing and green spaces are limited.
The project is being implemented through CSR funding by the environmental NGO Green Yatra. Its founder Pradeep Tripathi noted that progress depends partly on clearing debris currently present at the site. Once plantation begins, the saplings will require time to grow before the park can be opened to the public.
The plantation plan will include flowering plants and tree species that attract birds and insects year-round, helping create a stable habitat for urban wildlife while improving the ecological value of the site.
Urban forestry projects have been gaining traction in Mumbai as authorities look to protect green cover amid rapid urbanisation and infrastructure expansion.
Source: Prop News Time
