The Maharashtra government has approved a INR 45 crore allocation to accelerate the development of the Bhandup Bird Sanctuary, an eco-tourism project that will feature India's first artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled bird monitoring system, Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar announced on Monday.
The project will be developed along the Thane Creek shoreline near the Bhandup Pumping Station, within the Ramsar-designated Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary. Spread across approximately 20.09 hectares, the sanctuary aims to promote biodiversity conservation while creating a sustainable eco-tourism destination.
According to officials, only 0.35 hectares of the site will be used for visitor facilities to minimise ecological disturbance. The project will include birdwatching decks, viewing towers, a 2.16-km mangrove nature trail, a butterfly garden, a nature interpretation centre, lecture hall, jetty, parking facilities and other eco-friendly infrastructure.
A key highlight of the sanctuary will be its AI-powered bird detection and monitoring system. The technology will enable real-time bird identification, automated tracking, event analytics, digital recording and biodiversity documentation across a 1.5-km radius. The integrated system is expected to enhance the experience for birdwatchers, researchers, conservationists and tourists.
The sanctuary is located in a biodiversity-rich wetland ecosystem that supports mangroves, marshlands and nearly 250 species of resident and migratory birds, including flamingos. Officials said the project is designed to strengthen habitat conservation while promoting environmental education and responsible tourism.
The proposal has received approvals from the Maharashtra Eco-Tourism Board, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance, and technical clearance from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). The INR 45 crore funding will be provided through the Mumbai Suburban District Planning Committee's special allocation.
Shelar said the project would combine conservation, modern technology and sustainable tourism, positioning Mumbai as a leading destination for nature-based tourism while safeguarding one of its most ecologically sensitive wetlands.
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