Mumbai’s long-awaited mangrove eco park at Gorai has continued to remain shut nearly a year after authorities claimed the project was ready. The delay has triggered disappointment among environmental groups, teachers, and local residents, many of whom expected the destination to become a major centre for ecological tourism and environmental education.
Built at a cost of more than ₹33 crore, the project was envisioned as a first-of-its-kind coastal conservation attraction focused entirely on mangrove ecosystems. Visitors were expected to experience Mumbai’s fragile wetlands through guided nature trails, educational facilities, birdwatching spaces, and interactive biodiversity experiences. However, despite repeated announcements regarding its launch, public access has still not been permitted.
The project was initiated in 2021 when Aaditya Thackeray oversaw the environment and tourism portfolio in Maharashtra. Developed by the state forest department’s Mangrove Cell, the initiative also received approvals from environmental authorities and the Maharashtra State Eco-Tourism Board. Technical supervision responsibilities were assigned to Indian Institute of Technology Bombay.
Spread across nearly eight hectares, the eco destination includes a long elevated wooden trail built through dense mangrove vegetation without removing any trees. The pathway leads visitors deep into the wetland habitat before ending at a scenic observation deck overlooking the creek. An 18-metre birdwatching structure has also been constructed to help visitors observe wetland and migratory bird species.
The site additionally houses a multi-level interpretation centre equipped with reading spaces, digital presentation rooms, workshops, cafés, retail facilities, and rooftop dining. Officials have also stated that a significant portion of the project operates using solar-powered systems. Planned attractions further include virtual reality biodiversity modules, app-based information services, kayaking routes, and guided eco-trails.
Although the facility was originally expected to become operational much earlier, several proposed inauguration dates failed to materialise. Authorities have continued to maintain that the project is fully prepared, while indicating that final decisions regarding the opening are pending at higher administrative levels.
MLA Sanjay Upadhyay recently said that a final inspection had been carried out and added that the remaining minor work would soon be completed. Meanwhile, environmental activist Milli Shetty said schools across Mumbai had been eagerly waiting to organise student visits to the site. Environmentalist Zoru Bhathena also criticised the delay, remarking that conservation projects appear to move slower than activities that damage mangroves.