Mumbai is set to witness the creation of a new bird park in Mulund, an initiative being developed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The project, designed to replicate natural habitats for exotic birds, is expected to serve as a sub-centre to the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Botanical Udyan and Zoo in Byculla. A hospital, quarantine facility, and interactive awareness centre have been planned as part of the park’s design, ensuring comprehensive care and engagement opportunities.
It was conveyed by civic authorities that the bird park would become the city’s first such facility in more than a century. Reference was made to the establishment of Mumbai’s first zoo by the British 110 years ago, with this project being described as the first aviary built in independent India. The park is proposed to be constructed over a 17,958-square metre plot in Nahur village at an estimated expenditure of ₹166 crore. Completion has been targeted within two years, while 206 birds from 18 different regional, exotic, and endangered species are expected to be housed.
Momentum for the project was reported to have increased after intervention by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, with the Central Zoo Authority being instrumental in the clearance process. The land reservation status was modified from “recreation ground” to “zoo” to enable its use for this purpose. According to officials, the park will contain Asian, African, Australian, and American zones, each displaying birds native to those regions. Species such as the Malabar Grey Hornbill, Scarlet Macaw, Black Swan, Ostrich, and White Peacock are expected to be showcased.
It was indicated that inspiration for the design would be taken from Singapore’s Jurong Bird Park, which was Asia’s largest aviary before its relocation to Mandai in 2023. Collaboration with the Singapore facility has been proposed to ensure international standards are met. Features such as an open plaza, a large waterfall to welcome visitors, and spaces for lectures and workshops by avian experts have also been planned.
The estimated cost of the project, earlier pegged at ₹80 crore, was later revised to ₹166 crore. Officials explained that this revision included provision for operations, maintenance, outsourced veterinary care, nutrition services, and visitor amenities such as parking. The creation of the bird park is expected to ease footfall pressure on the Byculla zoo while offering residents of eastern Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Thane access to a new suburban attraction.